Rich Waltz, Dan Plesac and JP Morosi Call Great Britain vs Italy: Where to Watch World Baseball Classic Pool Clash on Fox Sports, Tubi and MLB Network Radio

Match date: 8 March 2026

Rich Waltz, Dan Plesac and JP Morosi Call Great Britain vs Italy: Where to Watch World Baseball Classic Pool Clash on Fox Sports, Tubi and MLB Network Radio

Baseball fans in the US can catch the crucial World Baseball Classic Pool B showdown between Great Britain and Italy on Fox Sports via Tubi at 17:00 UK time (12:00 ET), featuring the world feed commentary team of Rich Waltz on play-by-play, Dan Plesac as co-commentator and JP Morosi as reporter. For audio coverage, tune into MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM where Mike Ferrin handles main commentary alongside Ryan Spilborghs. This match in Houston sees Italy (1-0) aiming to build momentum after an 8-0 win over Brazil, while Great Britain (0-2) seeks a vital victory following losses to Mexico (8-2) and the United States (9-1).[1]

Fox Sports, the primary broadcaster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, leverages the world feed for select games like this one, ensuring high-quality production without their top on-site crews reserved for Team USA clashes and knockout stages. The world feed, supported by MLB Network's infrastructure, delivers neutral, expert analysis perfect for international matchups.[5] Rich Waltz, a seasoned play-by-play veteran, brings his smooth delivery honed over years calling MLB games for the Miami Marlins and other teams, making him a reliable voice for global audiences. Joining him is Dan Plesac, a former MLB All-Star reliever with over 200 career saves across 21 seasons, primarily with the Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago White Sox; now a respected analyst, Plesac offers insider pitching insights from his post-playing career on networks like NBC Sports.

JP Morosi, the reporter, is a prominent MLB insider known for his work with MLB Network and FOX Sports, frequently breaking news on transactions and roster moves. His reporting adds depth with on-field updates and player interviews, enhancing the broadcast experience. On the radio side, Mike Ferrin leads MLB Network Radio calls; a former minor leaguer turned broadcaster, Ferrin has been a staple since 2006, covering hundreds of games with his energetic style. Ryan Spilborghs, his co-commentator, is a fan favourite ex-Colorado Rockies outfielder who played in the 2009 WBC and now shines as an analyst for Rockies telecasts and national shows, praised for his engaging breakdowns and charisma.

The World Baseball Classic captivates with national pride on display, and this Great Britain vs Italy encounter promises intensity in Pool B alongside powerhouses like the undefeated United States (2-0) and Mexico (1-0).[1] Fox Sports elevates the tournament with star power in studio segments, though not for this game; expect appearances from legends like Derek Jeter, a five-time WBC participant and Hall of Fame shortstop in his fourth year as a FOX analyst, David Ortiz ('Big Papi'), the 2022 Hall of Famer with 541 home runs and a FOX analyst since 2017, and Alex Rodriguez, another World Series champion providing sharp takes since 2015.[2][3][6] Host Kevin Burkhardt, FOX's lead NFL voice who called Super Bowl LIX, anchors MLB studio coverage alongside these icons for semifinals and finals at loanDepot Park in Miami.

For Team USA games and knockouts, FOX deploys elite booths like Joe Davis and John Smoltz—Davis, the Dodgers' primary announcer and World Series lead since 2022, paired with Hall of Fame pitcher Smoltz (inducted 2015) in their fifth season together—plus Adam Amin, Kevin Kugler, Adam Wainwright and A.J. Pierzynski, with reporters Ken Rosenthal and Tom Verducci.[2][3][7] FOX Deportes offers Spanish coverage led by ex-WBC player Edgar Gonzalez, who managed Mexico in 2017, alongside Emmy winner Adrian Garcia-Marquez and others.[3]

Great Britain's squad, backed by a world-class coaching staff under director Gary Anderson, fights to advance despite early setbacks, embodying the tournament's underdog spirit.[8] Italy, with its strong baseball heritage, eyes a deep run. Stream on Tubi for free access to Fox Sports, or dial into SiriusXM channel 217 for radio action. For more on the World Baseball Classic broadcast details, visit Sports Illustrated's guide.[7] Don't miss this Pool B thriller that could reshape the standings.

Article generated: 8 March 2026, 17:01 GMT