Latin America continues to demonstrate its enormous impact on the international bestseller, cementing itself as one of the most influential regions in the sport. In the latest update of the WBSC/KONAMI Ranking Mundial de Béisbol Masculino, three Latin American countries ranked among the world's top 10, reflecting the region's growing competitive level and their ability to maintain themselves among the global elite.
Venezuela boasts its best historical position and enters the top 3
A historical story for the Venezuelan football team saw its rise to third place in the world rankings, the best position that this selection has occupied in its entire trajectory. This log marks a meteorological advancement, since in 2021 Venezuela occupied el puesto 11. Since then, the crew has increased its positions in just three years, consolidating itself as one of the most competitive selections on the international scene.
Venezuela's rise was spurred by a losing performance in key tournaments, such as the Premier12, where it finished fourth, its best result in that competition. With a total of 4,196 points, Venezuela has not only surpassed Mexico in this ranking, but has also reaffirmed its ability to compete at the highest level, a source of pride for the country and its passion.
Panama makes its historic debut in the top 10
Another country that made a significant leap in the ranking is Panama, which reached eighth position, its best historical position. This was possible thanks to their impressive debut in the Premier12, where they finished in fifth place, overcoming selections with a great trajectory like Puerto Rico and Cuba.
The name selection accumulated 3,264 points in the classification, a reflection of the collective work of the team and the compromise of your technical body. This has not only solidified Panama as an emerging powerhouse in Latin American bestselling, but also demonstrated that commitment and strategic planning can change the competitive landscape.
Puerto Rico and Cuba: tradition and desafíos
Even if Puerto Rico and Cuba have lost their positions in front of Venezuela and Panama, the other selections continue to be historical references of the béisbol caribeño. Puerto Rico is in the top spot with 3,058 points, while Cuba closes the top 10 with 2,980 points.
Both teams have faced challenges in recent years, but their history of success and tradition keeps them as strong contenders in the international arena. To recover positions in the ranking, the other selections will have to demonstrate their strength in upcoming tournaments such as the Premier12 and other international skills.
Dominican Republic and Colombia: in the fight for the top 12
Latin America's effort is not limited to the selections already mentioned. The Dominican Republic and Colombia are also disappearing to consolidate themselves among the best crews in the world. The Dominican Republic was ranked 11th with 2,016 points, while Colombia was in place 13th with 1,981 points, only 35 points behind Australia, which occupies the double position. This minimal difference keeps alive the hopes of the other selections to enter the top 12, so that we will ensure a direct ranking at the final stages of the main international tournaments.
The advantage continues to expand to a global level
The updated ranking not only shows the progress of Latin America, but also the competitive growth of the bestseller on a global level. Countries like China, located in the top 20, remain in the game to enter the Premier12 rankings. Furthermore, emerging selections such as Brazil and Spain, located in places 23 and 24 respectively, are increasingly close to competing with the traditional powers, with a difference of less than 100 points opening up the possibility of ascendancy in the coming years.
A notable aspect is the appearance of new nations in the ranking, such as Sint Maarten and Cambodia, which made their debut in this world ranking. This reflects how Value continues to gain followers and expand into regions where historically there has not been as much presence, which ensures a promising future for the sport globally.
The future of Latin American baseball: a leading region
The current ranking not only shows where Latin American selections are right now, but also its growth potential. According to WBSC projections, reaching the top 12 at the 2025 finals will be a key to guaranteeing participation in the final stages of major tournaments. This has added extra pressure to every match and tournament that will be played in the coming months, making every point crucial.
Latin America has enormous opportunities to continue its history in the world. Selections like Venezuela and Panama are redefining the traditional balance of power, while countries like Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic work to maintain themselves as international referents. This dynamism not only strengthens competitiveness within the region, but also increases its prominence on the global scene.
The ball is, undoubtedly, the pride of Latin America. Beyond the results on the field, the sport reflects the passion, talent and commitment of the countries in the region. As we advance in years, it is foreseeable that the Latin American selections will begin to dedicate a key card to major international tournaments, consolidating its strength as an unstoppable force in the world of bestsellers.
