Chinese Taipei vs Australia Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Baseball Classic | Pool Stage

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The 2026 World Baseball Classic gets underway in Tokyo with this Pool C clash between Chinese Taipei and an Australia side featuring Travis Bazzana, the number one pick in the 2024 MLB draft.

Kick-off date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – Not televised / USA – Fox Sports

How to watch online: UK – Cannot be streamed / USA – FOX One

Chinese Taipei vs Australia prediction

Australia are a team to watch in this pool, notable for being occupied by reigning WBC champions Japan. The Aussies were excellent in pool play during their last WBC campaign and the majority of their roster in 2023 are back again this year. The ASL (Australian Baseball League) is well represented, whilst infielder Travis Bazzana is the star name whom all eyes will be on. The 23-year-old was taken at number one by the Cleveland Guardians in the 2024 MLB draft.

Chinese Taipei were dealt a blow leading up to the tournament with the injury to first baseman Jonathan Long, the Chicago Cubs’ minor league player of the year who will likely have been important to the offense of this Chinese Taipai side. There is lots of pressure on Yu Chang, a big player for them three years ago, but you could argue that Australia boasts more pop within their line-up, making them the team worth backing in this opening game.

Chinese Taipei vs Australia tip: Australia to win