As Mexico prepares for the World Baseball Classic (WBC) 2026, attention is turning to potential pitchers like Cody Ponce. The Mexican team demonstrated significant talent and determination in the last WBC, and their quest for victory now hinges on constructing a formidable starting rotation capable of solid performance.
Who Is Cody Ponce?
Cody Ponce is a 31-year-old right-handed pitcher from California, USA, with Mexican heritage through his father. After a challenging journey through various leagues, Ponce made his mark in 2025 while playing for the Hanwha Eagles in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO). His outstanding performance earned him the title of MVP and the Choi Dong-won award for best starting pitcher.
Remarkable Achievements in KBO
- First foreign pitcher to win the quadruple crown in KBO: victories, ERA, strikeouts, and win percentage.
- Recorded 17 wins and only 1 loss with a remarkable 1.89 ERA.
- Set a new KBO record with 252 strikeouts in 180.2 innings pitched.
- Broke the record for the most strikeouts in a single game with 18 in a nine-inning performance.
These statistics highlight his ability to dominate hitters, a crucial quality for Mexico as they consider their pitching options for the short, intense format of the WBC.
Current Challenges and Free Agency
Despite his accomplishments, Ponce faces uncertainty regarding his participation in the upcoming tournament. His eligibility for the Mexican national team remains intact, even after playing for the USA in the WBSC Premier12 in 2019. However, he is currently a free agent and is actively seeking contract negotiations with Major League Baseball (MLB) teams, including contenders like the New York Mets, San Diego Padres, and Chicago Cubs.
The key issue for Ponce will be securing a contract that allows him to participate in the WBC. This situation complicates matters for the Mexican coaching staff, who will need to navigate negotiations not just with Ponce, but also with his prospective MLB team, which may be hesitant to expose a new signing to the risks tied to international competition.
Future Outlook
As 2026 approaches, Cody Ponce presents a powerful option for Mexico’s pitching rotation. His recent record-breaking season in the KBO adds invaluable experience and confidence to their roster. Should he overcome the challenges posed by free agency, Mexico may well secure a strong weapon in their quest for a championship in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.
