Political tensions will not hinder participation plans; Venezuela team will join the World Baseball Classic as scheduled.

The U.S. arrest of Venezuelan President Maduro has caused global unrest, affecting MLB spring training and the World Baseball Classic (WBC). The Atlantic Monthly reports that the Venezuelan national team is still planned to compete in the WBC kicking off in March.

The report states that after the incident, MLB authorities acted quickly, contacting players, coaches, and scouts in Venezuela to confirm their safety, while assessing the potential impact on the upcoming baseball season and the WBC. Four days later, the Venezuelan winter league resumed. Despite uncertainties, the international scouting director remains optimistic about the January 15 amateur signing day and expects Venezuela to continue competing in the Classic.

An MLB spokesperson declined to comment on the situation in Venezuela. Sources within the teams and league revealed that the league office is maintaining ongoing communication with all clubs. With flight restrictions lifted, players and coaches will be able to leave before spring training begins next month.

Staff from several teams are actively verifying the status of their personnel via text and phone calls. The Boston Red Sox confirmed that outfielder Wilyer Abreu, first baseman Willson Contreras, and catcher Carlos Narváez are all safe and unharmed.

The Kansas City Royals have contacted catcher Salvador Pérez, as well as third baseman Maikel Garcia and infield coach José Alguacil. General Manager J.J. Piccolo stated in a Monday video call, “We have confirmed everyone is doing well. All are safe, and their families are secure.”

Houston Astros manager Joe Espada has reached out to José Altuve and bench coach Omar López. Altuve is currently in Houston, while López, coaching in the Dominican winter league, will return to manage the Venezuelan team during the March WBC. Venezuela is grouped with the Dominican Republic, Israel, the Netherlands, and Nicaragua, with games held at LoanDepot Park in Miami.

ESPN reports that the situation has affected travel for Venezuelan professional athletes, especially baseball players. Flights were canceled after the U.S. attack on Caracas, causing a temporary halt to the winter league during playoffs, which resumed locally on January 7. The Caribbean Series originally scheduled for December in Caracas has been relocated to Guadalajara, Mexico.