Of all the nations competing in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, Italy stands out. On Saturday they will take part in the quarterfinals against Puerto Rico.
Additionally, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, their fans at home are in a good position to watch. While Italy will play at 8 p.m. EST, the Americans will occupy that time slot. Instead, Italy will play at 3 pm EST.
As a result, fans in Italy will be able to watch at 9 pm their time. Meanwhile, the Americans will play their quarterfinal match against Canada at 8 pm EST.
While Team Italy typically plays to win Pool B at 8 p.m., No. 2 seed Team USA gets that tonight's time slot for Fox TV viewers.
But by playing on Saturday at 3 pm ET, baseball fans in Italy can watch the game live at 9 pm with a time difference of six hours- Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) 13 March 2026
Without a doubt, Italy's greatest victory was their 8–6 upset over the Americans. After this, they defeated Mexico 8–6 to book a place in the quarter-finals.
In the process, he helped the Americans secure a spot after momentary uncertainty following the loss to Italy.
Italy is attempting to win its first World Baseball Classic title.
He has competed in every single tournament since 2006. Overall, Italy's best finish in the World Baseball Classic was 7th in 2013.
Recently, baseball has been gaining popularity in Italy. Nevertheless, football remains the most popular sport in the country. In America, Italian American players such as Joe DiMaggio and Yogi Berra have become larger-than-life icons.
The Italian Baseball League (Serie A) has existed in Italy since 1948.
Current players include homegrown Italian players as well as players of Italian heritage. Native players included Sam Aldegheri, Claudio ScottiAnd Gabriele Quattrini.
Meanwhile, players of Italian heritage include Aaron Nola, Matt Festa and Kyle Nicholls.
