SCOTTSDALE — As the Arizona Diamondbacks face Team Mexico in Tuesday’s World Baseball Classic exhibition, it will be a mix of sharpening their regular-season edge and a national team leaning on pride to build chemistry before the tournament begins.
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Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen (23) throws to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first inning on Feb. 25, 2026, at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Diamondbacks will give the ball to Zac Gallen, while Mexico will send Taijuan Walker to the mound. Both pitchers have found success with their respective clubs and have postseason experience. Now, they’ll have another opportunity to continue refining their craft.
While Arizona plans to roll out a lineup featuring both veterans and young players, Mexico is expected to field a group similar to the one fans will see when pool play begins — including D-Backs outfielder Alek Thomas.
Tuesday vs. Team Mexico! pic.twitter.com/O6FiIbRj9Q
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) March 3, 2026
¡PODER MEXA! 🔥
Estos son nuestros guerreros que saltarán al diamante. 😤👊🏻#EsMiSangre 🩸🇲🇽 pic.twitter.com/EWWtFgEzUs
— Novena México 🇲🇽⚾ (@MexicoBeis) March 3, 2026
Sep 25, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Taijuan Walker (99) throws a pitch against the Miami Marlins at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
This gives Gallen the chance to face an All-Star caliber lineup during Spring Training as he prepares for the regular season. After the year he had in 2025, the ace is aiming for a rebound and hoping to carry the momentum from the second half of last season into 2026. Working against a lineup like Mexico’s could prove beneficial.
On the other side, the Snakes’ lineup will get another opportunity to face a postseason-caliber pitcher in Walker. For position players who have had strong springs and are competing for an Opening Day roster spot, this presents a valuable chance to test their skills and prove themselves.
Mar 12, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Team Mexico outfielder Alek Thomas (5) and first base coach Gil Velazquez (12) celebrates after a single at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Zachary BonDurant-USA TODAY Sports
For fans in the Valley, it’s a rare and exciting matchup between a national team and their hometown club. With many Arizonans of Mexican descent, it’s also an opportunity to witness a cultural connection played out through the game of baseball.
The matchup isn’t about who wins, but rather a preview of what’s to come for both teams in their respective journeys.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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