Where to Watch USA vs Dominican Republic World Baseball Classic Semifinal: Joe Davis, John Smoltz and Star Pundits on Fox Sports 1

Match date: 16 March 2026

Where to Watch USA vs Dominican Republic World Baseball Classic Semifinal: Joe Davis, John Smoltz and Star Pundits on Fox Sports 1

Baseball fans in the US can catch the electrifying World Baseball Classic semifinal clash between the United States and Dominican Republic live on Fox Sports 1 (FS1) at 8:00 PM ET from loanDepot park in Miami, Florida, with streaming available on the Fox Sports App and audio coverage on Fox Sports SiriusXM[1][2][3]. This high-stakes matchup, kicking off at midnight UK time on 16 March 2026, pits two undefeated powerhouses against each other, with the winner advancing to the final against the victor of Italy vs Venezuela[2][3]. ESPN provides live scores and highlights, while MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM offers alternative commentary[1].

Leading the FS1 broadcast is veteran presenter Kevin Burkhardt, known for his commanding presence on Fox's NFL and MLB coverage, including the World Series. Main commentator Joe Davis, Fox's primary MLB voice since 2014, brings his sharp play-by-play skills honed from calling Dodgers games and national telecasts. Joining him as co-commentator is Hall of Famer John Smoltz, a World Series champion and eight-time All-Star pitcher whose 21-season career with the Atlanta Braves included a Cy Young Award; Smoltz transitioned seamlessly to broadcasting, earning acclaim for his pitching analysis on Fox and TBS[4]. The pre-game studio boasts an unparalleled lineup of pundits: Alex Rodriguez (A-Rod), a three-time AL MVP and 14-time All-Star with 696 home runs across his Yankees and Mariners tenure; David Ortiz (Big Papi), the Red Sox legend with three World Series titles and 541 homers, famous for his clutch postseason heroics; and Derek Jeter, the Yankees captain with five World Series rings, 3,465 hits, and a Hall of Fame career now extended to executive roles and broadcasting[4]. Reporters Ken Rosenthal, a Pulitzer Prize finalist and MLB insider, and Tom Verducci, three-time Emmy winner covering baseball for decades, will deliver on-site insights[1].

For radio enthusiasts, MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM features Mike Ferrin on main commentary alongside co-commentator Ryan Spilborghs, a former Rockies outfielder turned broadcaster known for his energetic style[1]. The international world feed, accessible via various global outlets, stars Matt Vasgersian, MLB's versatile play-by-play announcer with Olympics and NFL experience, paired with ex-player Yonder Alonso for colour analysis and reporter JP Morosi, a respected MLB Network contributor[1].

This semifinal promises a record-breaking spectacle, as both teams boast tournament-high firepower. The Dominican Republic, undefeated at 5-0, demolished Korea 10-0 in the quarterfinals with standout performances from Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Juan Soto, Fernando Tatis Jr. and others, amassing 13 home runs in four games under manager Albert Pujols[2][3][7]. Team USA rebounded from a pool-stage loss to Italy by beating Canada 5-3, with Paul Skenes slated to pitch against the DR's stacked lineup[3]. Historically, the DR leads 2-1 in WBC meetings, but the US triumphed 6-3 in 2017 en route to their lone title[2]. Odds favour the US at -128, with DR at +106, underscoring the tight contest[3].

The World Baseball Classic, sanctioned by the World Baseball Softball Confederation, has evolved into baseball's global showpiece since 2006, drawing MLB stars for national prideWorld Baseball Classic history[9]. Expect an electric atmosphere in Miami, reminiscent of past DR-US thrillers loaded with talent like Ortiz and Smoltz[4]. Whether tuning into Fox Sports 1 for the star-studded US broadcast or the world feed, this game could define the tournament, blending athletic prowess with broadcasting excellence. Fans should prepare for late-night drama on the UK side, but the talent on and off the field makes it unmissable.

With both squads eyeing their second WBC crown—US in 2017, DR in 2013—the stakes are immense as semifinals continue Monday with Italy vs Venezuela on FS1, culminating in Tuesday's final[2][3]. Secure your spot via the Fox Sports App or SiriusXM for every pitch.

Article generated: 16 March 2026, 00:10 GMT