2026 Baseball Season: Panama to Host | World Baseball Classic

by Liam O'Connor Sports Editor

Panama’s National Youth Baseball Championship Set to Begin January 3, 2026, with Savings Bank Sponsorship

The 57th edition of the National Youth Baseball championship in Panama is scheduled to commence on January 3, 2026, bolstered by a continued sponsorship from the savings Bank, a financial institution known locally as “The Bank of the Panamanian family.” This marks the sixteenth consecutive year the Savings Bank has supported the development of baseball talent within the nation.

A Legacy of Support for Panamanian Baseball

For over three decades, the Savings Bank has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to Panamanian baseball, particularly at the youth level. A representative from the financial institution emphasized the importance of sport as a platform for growth,stating,”Our sustained support for youth baseball for 16 years reflects a long-term vision: investing in values,opportunities and Panamanian youth.” This investment extends beyond the playing field, aiming to cultivate character, discipline, and leadership skills in young athletes.

The partnership was formally announced at an event held at the Panamanian Sports Hall of Fame, attended by representatives from the Savings Bank, the Panamanian Baseball Federation (Fedebeis), the Panamanian Sports Institute (Pandeportes), and members of the sports press.

Did you know? – Panama has a rich baseball history, producing numerous players who have excelled in major League Baseball, including Mariano Rivera, one of the game’s most dominant closers.

Honoring National Baseball legends

This year’s tournament will pay tribute to three iconic figures from Panama’s baseball history: Darío Agrazal, Benjamín Salamín, and David Rivas. All three players where instrumental in leading the Coclé province team – affectionately known as the “sugar growers” – to a national championship in major baseball.Recognizing these legends underscores the championship’s commitment to honoring the sport’s rich heritage.

Inaugural Matchup and Tournament Schedule

The championship will kick off at the Remón Cantera stadium in Aguadulce with a highly anticipated matchup between Coclé,the current national champion,and Colón.

Beyond the opening game,a full slate of contests is scheduled for January 3,2026,including:

  • Darién vs. Panama Este at the José De Luz Thompson stadium
  • Panama Metro vs. Panamá Oeste at the new Mariano rivera stadium in La Chorrera
  • Chiriquí Oeste against Bocas del Toro at the Calvin Byron stadium in Changuinola
  • Chiriquí against Veraguas at the Omar Torrijos stadium in Santiago
  • The “Azuero Clásico” between Herrera and Los Santos at the Roberto “Flaco Bala” Hernández stadium.

According to a leader from Fedebeis, the Savings Bank’s support is crucial for strengthening the tournament, which serves as a vital foundation for identifying and nurturing the talent that will ultimately represent Panama on the national and professional stages. “This alliance

Pro tip – Keep an eye on the Coclé province team; they are the defending champions and a perennial powerhouse in Panamanian youth baseball.

Why: The article details the upcoming 57th National Youth Baseball Championship in Panama.
Who: Key players include the Savings Bank (sponsor),the Panamanian Baseball Federation (Fedebeis),the Panamanian Sports Institute (Pandeportes),and the youth baseball players themselves.Honorees are Darío Agrazal, Benjamín Salamín, and David Rivas.
What: The championship is a national youth baseball tournament aimed at developing talent and honoring the sport’s heritage.
How did it end?: The article doesn’t detail an end to the championship, but states the tournament will begin on January 3, 2026, with a specific opening matchup and schedule. The Savings Bank’s continued sponsorship ensures the tournament’s continuation and strengthening.

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