The 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) is set to begin soon, featuring many of the sport’s biggest stars from across the globe, including players from Major League Baseball (MLB).
While MLB fans will recognise household names such as Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes, the rules used in WBC games differ in several important ways from MLB regulations, which can influence pitching decisions, roster management and overall game rhythm.
Ahead of the tournament, which will be broadcast live on SPOTV NOW, here is a clear breakdown of the key in-game rule distinctions.
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| Rule | MLB | WBC |
|---|---|---|
| Pitch Limits | None | Every pitcher has a strict number of maximum pitches per game: • First Round: 65 • Second Round: 80 • Championship Round: 95 |
| Mandatory Pitcher Rest | None | Based on pitches thrown, pitchers are required to rest one day (30+ pitches) or four days (50+ pitches).
Pitchers who throw on consecutive days must rest for one day. Pitchers cannot throw for three consecutive days. |
| Designated Pitcher Pool (DPP) | None | Teams may designate up to six additional pitchers in later rounds. |
| Mercy Rule | None | A game ends if a team leads by 15+ runs after five innings or 10+ runs after seven innings (First Round and Quarter-finals only). |
| Extra Innings Runner | Only in regular season; not used in postseason. | Automatic runner on second base in extra innings. |
| Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) Challenge System | Starting in 2026, each team receives two challenges per game. | None |
