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Watch Nicaragua vs Israel World Baseball Classic 2026 on Fox Sports Tubi with Paul Severino and Yonder Alonso Commentary
The electrifying clash between Nicaragua and Israel in Pool D of the 2026 World Baseball Classic is set for 8 March 2026 at loanDepot park in Miami, Florida, kicking off at 7:00 PM ET (23:00 UK time). Fans across the US can catch every pitch live on Fox Sports via Tubi, with audio available on SiriusXM MLB Play-by-Play 176. This high-stakes matchup features the world feed commentary duo of Paul Severino as the main voice and Yonder Alonso as co-commentator, bringing expert insights to the action.[1][2][5]
Fox Sports on Tubi leads the broadcast for American viewers, offering free access to this crucial game where both teams desperately seek their first Pool D victory. Nicaragua enters at 0-2 after narrow losses to the Netherlands (4-3) and a heavier defeat to the Dominican Republic (12-3), still hunting their inaugural WBC win.[1][3] Israel, at 0-1 following an 11-3 loss to Venezuela, looks to rebound with Baltimore Orioles right-hander Dean Kremer on the mound—the only player appearing for Israel in all three Classics.[1][4] Probable starter for Nicaragua is right-hander Carlos Rodriguez.[5]
Leading the call is Paul Severino, a seasoned MLB Network broadcaster whose dynamic style has made him a staple in baseball coverage. Severino’s career spans play-by-play for numerous MLB games, including high-profile international events, earning praise for his energetic delivery and deep game knowledge. Joining him is Yonder Alonso, the former MLB first baseman who played nine seasons across teams like the Cincinnati Reds, San Diego Padres, and Oakland Athletics, hitting .238 with steady defence. Post-retirement, Alonso has thrived as an analyst, offering insider perspectives on hitting and strategy from his days under managers like Dusty Baker.[1]
This encounter revives their 2023 WBC meeting, where Israel edged Nicaragua 3-1 in a dramatic eighth-inning rally featuring RBIs from Garrett Stubbs and Spencer Horwitz, both returning for 2026.[1][4] Pool D, dubbed the “Pool of Death,” pits these underdogs against powerhouses like Venezuela, the Dominican Republic, and the Netherlands. A win here is vital: Nicaragua needs it to salvage any advancement hopes, while Israel eyes a second victory in three tournaments after a magical 2017 run that saw them upset South Korea and others before quarter-final exits.[4]
Israel’s roster, primarily American Jewish players, has evolved since narrowly qualifying for 2017. Their 2023 Pool D campaign yielded just that one win over Nicaragua amid losses totalling 25-1 to stronger foes.[4] Key figures like Kremer embody national pride: “This is year 12 for me wearing that jersey,” he shared, highlighting his third straight Classic appearance.[1] Nicaragua, meanwhile, brings grit but faces historical hurdles in the WBC format.
Expect intense pitching duels under Miami’s lights, with weather forecasts around 80°F and light ESE winds.[5] Betting odds favour Israel slightly at -117, with a total over/under of 9.5 runs.[5] For fans planning a trip, loanDepot park promises an electric atmosphere amid Miami’s vibrant culture, dining, and beaches.[2]
Whether streaming on Tubi or tuning into SiriusXM, don’t miss this pivotal World Baseball Classic showdown. Learn more about Team Israel’s journey at Israel Baseball Federation.[7] With Severino and Alonso guiding viewers, the broadcast will capture every thrilling moment as these nations battle for glory.
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Article generated: 8 March 2026, 23:00 GMT
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