USA-Dominican Republic game sets World Baseball Classic record The semifinal matchup between the United States and the Dominican Republic on Sunday broke the viewership record for the World Baseball Classic. The game, held at loanDepot park in Miami, drew an audience of 7.369 million viewers, marking the most-watched broadcast in the tournament’s history. The event was broadcast on FS1 and FOX Deportes, with FS1 alone attracting 6.864 million viewers, the highest number for the network since 2019. This game also became the most-watched sporting event of the weekend. Viewership reached its peak during the final moments of the game, with 8.170 million people tuning in to FS1 between 11 p.m. ET and 11:08 p.m. ET. This surge in viewership coincided with Team USA securing its third consecutive trip to the WBC championship game. The thrilling 2-1 victory highlighted the intense competition and global appeal of the tournament, solidifying its status as a premier international baseball event.#loandepot_park #dominican_republic #fox_deportes #usa #fs1
Dominican Republic Third Baseman Manny Machado Shines in World Baseball Classic Manny Machado, the 33-year-old third baseman for the San Diego Padres, has enjoyed a distinguished 14-year Major League Baseball career marked by impressive statistics and accolades. Through his time in the majors, Machado has compiled a .279/.338/.486 slash line with an OPS of .824, along with 369 home runs, 1,144 RBIs, and 113 stolen bases in 1,894 games. His achievements include seven All-Star selections, three Silver Slugger Awards, two Gold Gloves, and one Platinum Glove. This spring, Machado is representing the Dominican Republic in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, where the team has made a strong start in Pool D. The Dominican Republic has secured victories in its first two games, including a 12-1 mercy rule win over the Netherlands on Sunday. Machado has contributed significantly to the team’s success, going 3-for-6 at the plate with three walks and two runs scored in the tournament. His defensive skills have also been on full display, particularly during a standout performance against Nicaragua. Machado’s pregame demeanor has sparked some controversy. Before the Dominican Republic’s game against the Netherlands, he was seen in the dugout expressing frustration over the lack of media attention. “Look around, no meetings here, barely any people. They don’t want to wake up early but they’ll roll up asking me questions later. Not a single person here. Don’t come sweating me later,” he remarked. Fans have responded with mixed reactions, with some criticizing his attitude and others questioning his focus. The Dominican Republic will next face Israel on Monday at noon ET in Miami, with the game broadcast on FS1.#dominican_republic #world_baseball_classic #manny_machado #san_diego_padres #fs1
