D-Backs’ newest 3B Nolan Arenado joins Team Puerto Rico for WBC

PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks’ newest addition will don a different jersey before putting on Sedona Red ahead of the 2026 season.

Third baseman Nolan Arenado will represent Team Puerto Rico in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, MLB announced.

The move marks a major shift from the 2023 tournament, when Arenado played for Team USA, as he now looks to represent his heritage after previously competing for his home country. The Diamondbacks’ third baseman has Puerto Rican heritage through his mom’s side and now has the opportunity to represent his roots on baseball’s biggest international stage.

USA’s Nolan Arenado fields a ball at third base against Colombia during their World Baseball Classic game at Chase Field in Phoenix on March 15, 2023.
Baseball World Baseball Classic Final Day © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

One of baseball’s most accomplished infielders, Arenado brings veteran experience to an already stacked Puerto Rico roster that is seeking a return to the tournament’s championship round for the first time since 2017.

Arenado’s participation also elevates Arizona’s footprint on the global stage. The Diamondbacks have expanded their international profile in recent years, with several marquee players featured on contending World Baseball Classic rosters ahead of the 2026 season.

Jun 29, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado (28) advances to third on a double and an error during the sixth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Along with Arenado, Corbin Carroll will suit up for Team USA, Ketel Marte and Geraldo Perdomo will represent the Dominican Republic, and Eduardo Rodríguez will pitch for Venezuela.

For a tournament that thrives on emotion as much as execution, Arenado’s commitment to representing his roots runs deeper than just playing the game of baseball.

Sep 23, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado (28) runs home after his solo home run against the San Francisco Giants during the seventh inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde