2026 WBC News: Yadier Molina Named Puerto Rico Manager

Molina will join former teammate Albert Pujols (Dominican Republic), as well as former Major Leaguer Mark DeRosa (U.S.A.) as confirmed managers for their respective countries.

It’s the second time Molina, who retired after the 2022 season, will be manager of Team Puerto Rico. The former Cardinals catcher led the team, bounced by Mexico, to the quarterfinals in March 2023.

For Molina, he should have plenty of options for how he wants to set up his roster.

Francisco Lindor already confirmed he’ll be on the 2026 roster as Puerto Rico’s captain. Carlos Correa and Javier Baez, the latter of whom has enjoyed a strong rebound season with Detroit, also seem like sensible options.

However, what Puerto Rico’s pitching staff will look like remains to be seen.

Puerto Rico’s bullpen should be fine. Edwin Diaz will likely be an option, even though his 2023 season ended in the World Baseball Classic. Additionally, Fernando Cruz — one of the best strikeout pitchers over the last three seasons — has to be in the conversation.

Marcus Stroman, who pitched for Puerto Rico in 2023, struggled this season with the Yankees before landing on the injured list. Seth Lugo, a finalist for the AL Cy Young last season, previously pitched for Puerto Rico and may very well be an option, especially if he doesn’t enter the free agent market this winter.