Rangers' 2026 spring training includes exciting World Baseball Classic opponent

Team Brazil to play Rangers in spring training exhibition game in preparation of 2026 World Baseball Classic

Major League Baseball released every team's 2026 spring training schedule on Wednesday. With the World Baseball Classic (WBC) set to take place this March, the Texas Rangers will host Team Brazil on March 4 in Surprise, Arizona, where the team has had spring training since 2003.

Brazil aims to knock out powerhouse countries

Brazil punched its ticket to the 2026 WBC with a 6-4 win against Germany in the WBC qualifier last March. The nation hasn't been represented in the WBC since its first appearance in the tournament in 2013, when it was relegated back to qualifiers after finishing 0-3. Brazil almost defeated powerhouse Team Japan during the 2013 tournament, leading 3-2 in the eighth inning before ultimately falling short.

Brazil will have a tough task during the 2026 WBC, as it will compete in Pool B with the United States, Mexico, Italy and Great Britain in Houston to open the tournament. Brazil's first game of the WBC is scheduled for two days after its matchup with the Rangers, as it's set to take on Team USA on March 6.

As of now, there is only one Major Leaguer expected to play for Team Brazil during the 2026 WBC: Bo Bichette.

However, Bichette may decide not to play in the WBC after all. He is a free agent, so he may want to be with his new team (unless he re-signs with the Toronto Blue Jays) during spring training as much as possible. Additionally, he was sidelined for this year's ALDS and ALCS with a sprained left posterior cruciate ligament, and he was noticeably hurt during the World Series.

Rangers set to begin 2026 spring training against Kansas City Royals

Before their exciting matchup with Team Brazil, the Rangers will play 12 Cactus League Games. Their first game of the Spring will be on Feb. 20 against the Kansas City Royals, who share Texas' spring training facility. The Rangers will end their spring training at Globe Life Field with two games against the Royals from March 23-24.