Sandy Alcantara faced a challenging pace upon his return to the MLB in 2025 after undergoing Tommy John surgery the previous season. Yet, the 2022 National League Cy Young winner managed to close the year with impressive form. As he gears up for the 2026 season, Alcantara will be proudly representing the Dominican Republic at this month’s World Baseball Classic.
In a recent interview with MLB insider Yancen Pujols, Alcantara shared his excitement about having Juan Soto as a teammate for the Dominican squad in the 2026 WBC. He regards Soto as one of the hardest players to face, emphasizing that getting him to chase pitches is nearly impossible. Alcantara stresses that plate discipline will play a crucial role for Team DR during the tournament.
“Juan Soto has one of the toughest strike zones. It’s really challenging. You can execute your best pitch, and he still won’t swing. Then the umpire might call it a ball, anyway. But there’s no question he is a phenomenal hitter, and as a fellow Dominican, that’s a tremendous asset for us,” Alcantara noted, with translation from Spanish provided by MasterFlip.
Sandy Alcantara on Juan Soto, Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani being his toughest outs;
(Translated and written by Master Flip)
“Juan Soto has one of the toughest strike zones. It’s really tough. You can execute your best pitch and he still won’t swing. Then the umpire calls it a… pic.twitter.com/NVdo9PNUls
— Master Flip 🇩🇴 (@Masterflip_) March 1, 2026
Soto is part of a formidable batting lineup that includes talents like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Ketel Marte, Manny Machado, and Julio Rodriguez. On the mound, Alcantara stands as the ace backed by Christopher Sanchez, Luis Severino, and Brayan Bello. Team DR will play their pool games at LoanDepot Park in Miami.
Bryce Harper and Shohei Ohtani Draw High Praise From Sandy Alcantara
Alcantara also highlighted the Philadelphia Phillies ’Bryce Harper and Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani among the most challenging hitters he has encountered in MLB. He described Harper’s aggressive approach, noting that he often looks to attack pitchers early in the count. Ohtani, in contrast, is patient and punishes any mistakes made by pitchers.
“Bryce Harper is an aggressive hitter. He loves to jump on the first pitch,” he stated. “Shohei Ohtani is more selective. He capitalizes on mistakes. If you don’t execute, he is going to make you pay. You have to be precise with how you approach him.”
Sandy Alcantara has added a sweeper to his arsenal;
(Translated and written by Master Flip)
I’ve been working on a new pitch this offseason, my pitching coach actually recommended the idea. I think it’s a great fit for me as a power pitcher who already relies on a fastball,… pic.twitter.com/VmLt3moxne
— Master Flip 🇩🇴 (@Masterflip_) March 1, 2026
There’s a chance that Alcantara will face both hitters during the 2026 WBC. Harper is one of several MVPs on Team USA’s roster, while Ohtani captains the defending champion Japanese team. Yet, Alcantara could enjoy a favorable home environment if he competes against them, as LoanDepot Park will host the semifinals and championship game.
