Watch Stephen Nelson and José Mota Call Czechia vs South Korea in 2026 World Baseball Classic on FS1

Baseball fans in the US can tune into Fox Sports 1 (FS1) at 5 a.m. ET to catch the thrilling Pool C opener of the 2026 World Baseball Classic: Czechia versus Republic of Korea (South Korea). This key matchup at Tokyo Dome, kicking off at 7 p.m. local time (10:00 UK time), features the world feed commentary duo of Stephen Nelson as main commentator and José Mota as co-commentator, delivering expert insights via Fox One, FS1, the Fox Sports App, and Fox Sports SiriusXM. American viewers will appreciate the early broadcast on prominent channels like FS1, ensuring top-tier coverage for this international showdown.

Czechia, no longer mere underdogs after their 2023 debut upset over China, faces a motivated South Korea side aiming to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 2009[1][2]. Probable starters are Czechia's Daniel Padýšak, excited to lead his squad, against Korea's Hyeong Jun So, the 2020 KBO Rookie of the Year with a strong 13-6 record last season[1]. History favours Korea, who won 7-3 in 2023 with Ha-Seong Kim's two homers and swept a recent series[1][4]. For Korea, anything short of advancing to Miami spells disappointment[1].

The commentary team elevates the viewing experience. Stephen Nelson, a seasoned broadcaster, has covered MLB for networks like ROOT Sports and NBC Sports California, bringing his smooth delivery and deep game knowledge to the world feed. His career includes play-by-play for Oakland Athletics and San Francisco Giants telecasts, making him a reliable voice for global audiences[1]. Pairing with him is José Mota, a bilingual legend with over 20 years calling Los Angeles Angels games on Fox Sports West. A former Angels outfielder, Mota's expertise in international baseball and Spanish-English fluency adds rich analysis, especially valuable for diverse WBC viewers[1].

Pool C at Tokyo Dome, from March 5-10, pits Japan (co-host), Australia, South Korea, Czechia, and Chinese Taipei, with the top two advancing to quarterfinals in Houston and Miami[2]. Czechia prepared in Miyazaki with games against Japanese farm teams, while Korea honed skills in Okinawa against KBO clubs before Osaka exhibitions[5]. US fans have seamless access via FS1 and Fubo, with free English audio streams available globally[1][3]. UK viewers can stream via international options, aligning with the 10:00 start.

This clash tests Czechia's growing prowess against Korea's high stakes. Padýšak's enthusiasm signals intent: "We've all been looking forward to this"[1]. Korea's manager eyes quarters: "We are aiming to go for the quarterfinal, at least"[1]. Expect power hitting and strategic pitching in Tokyo's iconic dome.

For more on the World Baseball Classic, visit the official MLB WBC page. Whether you're a die-hard follower or new to the tournament, Stephen Nelson and José Mota's calls on FS1 promise an engaging broadcast. Don't miss Czechia challenging Korea in this pivotal opener—baseball's global stage awaits.

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Article generated: 5 March 2026, 10:01 GMT