San Juan, Puerto Rico – As the 2026 World Baseball Classic heats up, Colombian pitcher Julio Teherán is focused on a potential repeat performance against Canada. The veteran right-hander is slated to take the mound Saturday against a strong Canadian lineup in a Group A matchup at Estadio Hiram Bithorn, a game scheduled for 11 a.m. ET.
For Teherán, representing his country carries a weight and significance unlike any other experience in his 13-year Major League Baseball career. “I feel that this is different,” Teherán stated. “I’ve pitched in different scenarios. This is the most important. Obviously, you represent the whole country, not just an organization. This is more special.”
Teherán, 35, has donned the uniforms of five different MLB teams – the Mets, Braves, Angels, Tigers, and Brewers – and has similarly pitched in postseason games and in the Mexican League. But, he emphasizes the unique honor of wearing the Colombian jersey on the international stage. He has a career record of 81-82 with a 3.85 ERA and 1.22 WHIP across 255 games (248 starts) according to MLB.com.
Facing a Familiar Foe
This isn’t Teherán’s first encounter with Team Canada in the World Baseball Classic. He previously faced them in the 2017 tournament, delivering a dominant performance, allowing only two hits and one run over five innings in a 4-1 victory for Colombia. He anticipates a challenging matchup this time around, acknowledging Canada’s strong roster, which includes a significant number of left-handed hitters.
“I know they have a lot of lefties. We’ll observe. We have a plan. Obviously, we need to talk about it, but it’s nothing different. I know how to pitch. I have my pitches, and that’s basically what I focus on. I just have my plan and I go out and execute it,” Teherán explained. Canada’s roster boasts 21 players with Major League experience, including 14 who participated in the 2023 World Baseball Classic as reported by El Heraldo.
Colombia’s Squad and Tournament Outlook
Colombia is coming off a debut game against Puerto Rico in the 2026 Classic. The team features several experienced players, including José Quintana, Donovan Solano, and Gio Urshela, alongside Teherán. Solano highlighted the strength of the Canadian team, stating, “They have a tremendous roster. It’s a tremendous team. But beyond the name or if there aren’t any superstars, you have to play. Notice teams that can surprise.”
Canada, under the leadership of manager Ernie Whitt for a sixth time, is considered a favorite in Group A alongside Puerto Rico to advance to the second round of the tournament. Key Canadian players include Josh Naylor (Mariners), Tyler O’Neill (Orioles), Jameson Taillon (Cubs), and Michael Soroka (Diamondbacks) according to Eldia.com. Soroka is scheduled to pitch today.
World Baseball Classic Format
The 2026 World Baseball Classic features 20 teams divided into four groups of five. The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals, where they will be matched up in a crossover format. The tournament culminates in the semifinals and final, determining the world champion. Colombia, Canada, Cuba, Panama, and Puerto Rico comprise Group A, with games being played in San Juan, Puerto Rico as detailed by Sporting News.
Teherán, who last pitched in the majors for the New York Mets in 2024 before playing in the Mexican League, is embracing the pressure and excitement of representing his nation. He intends to share his experience with younger teammates, helping them navigate the emotions of competing on such a grand stage.
The outcome of Saturday’s game between Colombia and Canada will be crucial for both teams as they vie for a spot in the next stage of the tournament. Fans can expect a competitive matchup between two talented rosters, with Teherán aiming to replicate his success against Canada from the 2017 Classic.
What comes next for Colombia will depend on the result of this crucial game and their remaining schedule in Group A. The team will need to maintain focus and consistency to advance to the quarterfinals and contend for a championship. Share your thoughts on Colombia’s chances in the comments below!
