We’re about to read about the places where baseball is a big deal, showing that this sport isn’t limited to what you might expect. Even longtime fans may be surprised to hear of some of these places. What’s remarkable about baseball is that it holds appeal to countries outside of the United States and Canada. It is growing in popularity internationally, as part of the efforts of Major League Baseball to showcase the sport in many places.
Baseball has a long history and tradition of being played in some of these counties on our list; in others, it is a burgeoning pastime. As we highlight the sport’s popularity in diverse communities, we trust that this post will further deepen your appreciation for the game.
The Global Evolution of Baseball
Baseball, originally an American tradition, has woven its way into the rich tapestry of sports across the globe. Its roots trace back to the 18th century, gaining popularity in North America and eventually spreading to other continents.
As the years unfolded, the sport traveled beyond cultural boundaries, finding a home in unexpected corners. Throughout the 20th century, and even today, international competitions and events have solidified baseball’s status as a global sport. The passion for the game has led to the establishment of professional leagues in diverse countries, creating a vibrant and interconnected world of baseball enthusiasts.
Key Dates in Baseball’s Global Expansion
1. 1876 ~ Founding of the National League (United States)
The establishment of the National League in the United States marked a crucial moment in baseball’s history, providing a structured professional league that laid the foundation for the sport’s growth within the country and beyond.
2. 1934 ~ Founding of the Chinese Professional Baseball League (Taiwan)
The creation of the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) in Taiwan was a significant step in spreading baseball across Asia. This league became a focal point for baseball development in the region, contributing to the sport’s popularity in Taiwan and neighboring countries.
3. 1947 ~ Desegregation of Major League Baseball (United States)
Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier by becoming the first African American player in Major League Baseball had profound implications for the sport’s inclusivity. This event not only transformed the landscape of American baseball but also had a global impact on breaking racial barriers in sports.
4. 1963 ~ Introduction of the European Cup (Europe)
The inauguration of the European Cup (now known as the Champions Cup), a continental club competition, played a crucial role in promoting baseball in Europe. This tournament provides European teams with opportunities to compete at an international level, fostering growth and interest in the sport across the continent. The team with the most championships in the league is Parma (Italy), with 8.
5. 2004 ~ Inauguration of the World Baseball Classic (Global)
The World Baseball Classic, a multinational tournament featuring top players from around the world, has become a pivotal event in promoting international competition and unity in baseball. Its inception in 2004 has contributed to the globalization of the sport and heightened awareness of baseball’s appeal on a global scale.
6. Baseball at the Olympic Games
Baseball has a rich history at the Olympic Games, debuting as a demonstration sport in 1904 before becoming an official event in 1992. It continued to feature until 2008 when it was removed from the Olympic program due to concerns about the lack of global participation and major league players’ absence. Despite efforts to reinstate it, the sport remained absent until the International Olympic Committee voted to reintroduce baseball, along with softball, for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
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As can be seen, this beloved game has become a shared experience that unites fans from different cultures and backgrounds.
Now on to the countries where baseball is popular.
Countries Where Baseball Is Popular
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1. United States
Professional League: Major League Baseball (MLB)
#Teams: 29
Baseball stands as an enduring pillar of popularity in the United States, earning its designation as the nation’s pastime. Rooted in a rich history dating back to the 19th century, the sport has become woven into the fabric of American culture. From the iconic crack of the bat to the excitement of the World Series, baseball evokes a sense of nostalgia and tradition. The sport’s popularity extends beyond the diamond, influencing literature, film, and countless conversations at the heart of American communities. Throughout the country, baseball’s timelessness continues to captivate fans across generations, making it a cultural touchstone that resonates throughout the country.
2. Cuba
Professional League: Cuban National Series (SNB)
#Teams: 16
Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba, deeply ingrained in the country’s culture. The Cuban National Series is a highly competitive league, and many Cuban players have excelled in international competitions and the Major Leagues. The country’s performance in baseball at the Pan American Games has been remarkable, with a total of 12 gold medals won since the competition’s beginning in 1951. As of 2024, there are six members of the Hall of Fame of Cuban origin. Cuba played a pivotal role in spreading baseball’s popularity across other Caribbean nations. Immigrants introduced the sport to their new communities in those areas.
MLB players from Cuba:
1. José Abreu
2. Yoenis Céspedes
3. Dominican Republic
Professional League: Dominican Professional Baseball League (LIDOM)
#Teams: 6
Baseball holds a special place in the hearts of Dominicans, and the country has produced numerous talented players. Dominican players are known for their passion, skill, and contributions to Major League Baseball. Retired right fielder Sammy Sosa, who dazzled baseball fans with his iconic home runs and high-energy style, was born in the Dominican Republic. From March 9-10, 2024, the Boston Red Sox faced the Tampa Bay Rays in a series of Spring Training games in the Dominican Republic. This is the first time that an MLB game was played in the country. Dominican youth in impoverished areas showcase resourcefulness by fashioning makeshift baseball equipment, demonstrating their passion for the sport. These determined individuals ingeniously create equipment to indulge in their love for baseball amidst economic challenges. No other sport in the Dominican Republic is watched, played, and beloved in the country as much as baseball has been for more than a century.
MLB players from the Dominican Republic:
1. Adrián Beltré
2. Robinson Canó
4. Japan
Professional League: Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB)
#Teams: 12
Baseball is Japan’s most popular sport, with a rich history. The Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league enjoys a large fan base, and Japanese players are increasingly making a mark in Major League Baseball, contributing to the global popularity of the sport.
MLB players from Japan:
1. Ichiro Suzuki
2. Shohei Ohtani
5. Nicaragua
Professional League: Nicaraguan Professional Baseball League (LBPN)
#Teams: 5
Baseball is widely played and followed in Nicaragua, with a strong baseball culture. The country has produced notable players who have succeeded both in national and international competitions.
MLB players from Nicaragua:
1. Dennis Martínez
2. Vicente Padilla
6. Canada
Professional League: Major League Baseball (MLB)
#Teams: 1
Baseball is popular in Canada, with a dedicated fan base and a strong tradition. The Toronto Blue Jays, the only Canadian MLB team, contribute to the country’s love for the sport. The Blue Jays won back-to-back World Series titles in 1992 and 1993, making them the first Canadian franchise to win the championship in MLB history. The team plays their home games at Rogers Centre, the first stadium in the world to feature a fully retractable roof, allowing games to be played in various weather conditions.
MLB players from Canada:
1. Larry Walker
2. Ferguson Jenkins
7. Mexico
Professional League: The Mexican League (LMB)
#Teams: 20
In Mexico, baseball enjoys widespread popularity in Mexico, with passionate fans and thriving leagues across the country. With the professional Mexican Baseball League (LMB) and numerous players making a mark in Major League Baseball, Mexico’s contribution to the global baseball stage is significant. The sport is a source of national pride, attracting fervent support from fans across the country. Baseball in Mexico is a dynamic blend of tradition and modern competition, reflecting the nation’s passion for the game and its lasting influence on the country’s sports landscape. From April 27-28, 2024, the Colorado Rockies and Houston Astros played a pair of regular season games in Mexico City. MLB has twice before scheduled official games in the country as part of their efforts to spread knowledge of the sport internationally.
MLB players from Mexico:
Fernando Valenzuela
Mel Almada
8. Panama
Professional League: Panamanian Professional Baseball League (LPBP)
#Teams: 3
Panama has a storied baseball history. The Panamanian Professional Baseball League (PROBEIS) has played a pivotal role in maintaining and celebrating this rich tradition. Baseball is more than a game in Panama; it is a cultural phenomenon that unites communities and showcases local talent. The league provides a platform for players to showcase their skills and contribute to the nation’s baseball legacy. As Panama continues to nurture its baseball culture, the sport remains an integral part of the country’s identity, fostering a sense of pride and camaraderie.
MLB players from Panama:
Rod Carew
Mariano Rivera
9. Puerto Rico
Professional League: Puerto Rican Winter League (PRIBL)
#Teams: 6
Baseball is a major sport in Puerto Rico, and the island has produced many talented players. The Puerto Rican Winter League and contributions to Major League Baseball highlight the significance of baseball in Puerto Rican culture.
MLB players from Puerto Rico:
1. Roberto Clemente
2. Carlos Beltrán
10. Republic of Korea
Professional League: Korean Baseball Organization (KBO)
#Teams: 10
In the vibrant and dynamic sports landscape of the Republic of Korea, baseball stands out as a national passion. In the Asian Games 2023, the country won first prize in baseball for the fourth straight year. The San Diego Padres played the Los Angeles Dodgers on Opening Day ’24 in Seoul, the first time a regular-season game has taken place there. In Jan. ’24, in a rare move for Major League Baseball, the St. Louis Cardinals traded pitcher James Naile to the KIA Tigers of the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) in exchange for cash considerations. Baseball in the Republic of Korea is more than a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings communities together in celebration of skill, competition, and national pride.
MLB players from the Republic of Korea:
Ji Hwan Bae
Rob Refsnyder
11. Taiwan
Professional League: Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL)
#Teams: 8
Baseball is a beloved sport in Taiwan, with a strong emphasis on youth development. The Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) is a popular league, and Taiwanese players have gained recognition on the international stage.
MLB players from Taiwan:
1. Chien-Ming Wang
2. Wei-Yin Chen
12. Venezuela
Professional League: Venezuelan Professional Baseball League (LVBP)
#Teams: 8
Baseball is a major sport in Venezuela, with a rich baseball tradition. Venezuelan players are known for their talent and have made significant contributions to Major League Baseball, making the sport widely followed and cherished.
MLB players from Venezuela:
Miguel Cabrera
Félix Hernández
And now…
Countries Where Baseball Is Surprisingly Popular
1. Italy
Professional League: Italian Baseball League (FIBS)
#Teams: 6
Italy boasts a rich baseball history that transcends the conventional European sports landscape. With a dedicated league and a national team that has achieved success in European competitions, Italy stands as a baseball powerhouse in the region. The sport’s roots run deep in Italian culture, providing a source of national pride and community engagement. As the Italian Baseball League (IBL) continues to showcase local talent and international competition becomes more spirited, Italy’s baseball journey unfolds as a testament to the sport’s enduring appeal and its ability to weave into the cultural fabric of diverse nations.
MLB players from Italy:
Alex Liddi
Francesco Cervelli
2. China
Professional League: China National Baseball League(CNBL)
#Teams: 4
In China, baseball is experiencing a transformative journey as the country intensifies efforts to promote the sport. The emphasis on grassroots development and the presence of the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) are pivotal in shaping baseball’s trajectory. As local talent emerges and gains recognition on the CPBL stage, baseball is gradually gaining popularity among Chinese sports enthusiasts. The sport’s dynamic growth reflects an intersection of cultural exchange and evolving sporting interests in China, opening new horizons for the development of baseball as a significant and cherished pastime.
MLB players from China:
Harry Kingman
Austin Brice
3. Israel
Professional League: Israel Baseball League (IBL)
#Teams: 5
Baseball’s popularity is on the rise in Israel, spurred by the efforts of the Israel Baseball League to spark interest and inspire aspiring players. Israel is making strides in creating a baseball culture that resonates with the local community. The league provides a platform for players to develop their skills and compete at a higher level. As Israel’s baseball community grows, the sport becomes a symbol of resilience, diversity, and the universal language of sports, breaking barriers and fostering a sense of camaraderie among players and fans.
MLB players from Israel:
Dean Kremer
Ryan Lavarnway
4. Colombia
Professional League: Colombian Professional Baseball League (LPB)
#Teams: 6
Baseball is gaining traction in Colombia, becoming a force within the country’s sports landscape. With a surge in the number of players and the establishment of leagues, Colombia is witnessing a notable rise in baseball’s popularity. This growth is not only contributing to the nation’s sporting diversity but also fostering a sense of community and competition. As local talents emerge and the baseball culture expands, Colombia is embracing the sport with enthusiasm, showcasing the transformative power of baseball within its vibrant and evolving sports scene.
MLB players from Colombia:
José Quintana
Gio Urshela
5. Spain
Professional League: Royal Spanish Baseball and Softball Federation (RFEBS)
#Teams: 11
Spain is witnessing interest in baseball, marked by the development of local leagues and increased grassroots participation. As the sport gains momentum, a sense of community is growing among Spanish baseball enthusiasts. The emergence of a developing league and heightened grassroots engagement showcases Spain’s commitment to expanding the reach of baseball. Amid this evolving sports landscape, Spain is carving its niche in the global baseball community, fostering a new generation of players and fans who contribute to the country’s vibrant sports culture.
MLB players from Spain:
Al Pardo
Danny Rios
6. Philippines
Professional League: Philippine Baseball League
#Teams: 12
Baseball is making a notable mark in the Philippines, with local leagues like the Philippines Baseball League (PBL) serving as platforms for talent development and community engagement. Baseball’s presence is growing, reflecting a dynamic sports culture that embraces diversity. The PBL provides aspiring players with opportunities to hone their skills and compete, contributing to the sport’s grassroots growth. As baseball gains traction in the Philippines, it becomes a symbol of unity, friendly competition, and the universal appeal of sports in a nation known for its passionate sports enthusiasts.
MLB players from the Philippines:
Anthony Volpe
Travis d’Arnaud
7. Netherlands
Professional League: Honkbal Hoofdklasse
#Teams: 8
In the Netherlands, baseball holds a prominent place in the country’s sports culture, capturing the hearts of fans and producing a strong following. With a top professional league and notable achievements in international competitions, the Netherlands has become a European baseball powerhouse. The Honkbal Hoofdklasse showcases local talent, providing a competitive platform for players to excel. As the Dutch national baseball team achieves success on the global stage, baseball in the Netherlands becomes a source of national pride and community celebration, exemplifying the sport’s ability to resonate deeply within diverse cultural landscapes.
MLB players from the Netherlands:
Bert Blyleven
Didi Gregorius
8. South Africa
Professional League: South Africa Baseball Union (SABU)
#Teams: 12
Baseball is gaining popularity in South Africa, reflecting the country’s commitment to diversifying its sports landscape. Organized leagues and grassroots initiatives are introducing the sport to local communities, creating opportunities for aspiring players. South Africa’s embrace of baseball represents a broader effort to foster inclusivity and provide a platform for athletes from various backgrounds. As the sport takes root and local talent emerges, baseball becomes a symbol of unity, breaking new ground in the South African sports scene and contributing to the nation’s evolving athletic identity. The growth of baseball in South Africa underscores the transformative power of sports in building bridges and fostering a sense of community.
MLB players from South Africa:
Gift Ngoepe
Trevor Hoffman
9. Brazil
Professional League: Brazilian Baseball Championship (LVBP)
#Teams: 11
In October 2023, Brazil qualified for the semi-finals at the Pan American games in Santiago, Chile after winning against Colombia. Baseball in Brazil has gained modest popularity in recent years, albeit still trailing behind more established sports like soccer, long considered the national sport. The growth can be attributed to increased exposure through international events, grassroots development programs, and the efforts of passionate enthusiasts. While not as ingrained in the national culture as some other sports, baseball has found a niche following, especially in urban areas and among the youth. The Brazilian Confederation of Softball and Baseball’s initiatives to promote the sport at the grassroots level have contributed to its slow but steady rise. Although baseball is not a dominant force in Brazil’s sports landscape, its increasing presence signals a promising trajectory for the sport’s development in the country.
MLB players from Brazil:
Yan Gomes
Thyago Vieira
10. France
Professional League: French Federation of Baseball and Softball (FFBS)
#Teams: 8
Baseball in France has been a growing but niche sport. During the early 1920s, Babe Ruth contributed to the global outreach of baseball by participating in exhibition games in France, helping spark interest in the sport within the country. While it may not rival the popularity of traditional European sports like soccer, it has gained a dedicated following. La Fédération Française de Baseball & Softball (The French Baseball and Softball Federation) oversees the sport’s development, and there are organized leagues, clubs, and national teams.
MLB players from Brazil:
Steve Jeltz
Bruce Bochy
11. England
Professional League: British Baseball Federation (BBF)
#Teams: 38
On June 8-9, 2024, the New York Mets played the Philadelphia Phillies in the MLB World Tour: London Series as part of their efforts to increase appreciation of the sport beyond the United States and Canada. Baseball’s history in England dates back to the late 19th century, when the sport gained popularity among American expatriates and British locals, and baseball clubs began to form across the country. The London-based British Baseball Federation was established in 1987. In 1869, the first professional baseball, the Cincinnati Reds [then known as the Cincinnati Red Stockings], was founded by Harry Wright, who was born in England. He would also play professionally for seven seasons. In 1953, the Veterans Committee elected Wright to the Hall of Fame. The sport has faced challenges, experiencing fluctuations in popularity, with periods of growth and decline. Cricket and soccer are still the country’s most popular sports. The turn of the 21st century saw renewed interest, fueled by initiatives to introduce the game in schools and communities. Events like the MLB London Series in 2019, featuring the Yankees and Red Sox, further elevated baseball’s profile in the country. It may not rival cricket or soccer in popularity, but baseball has found a niche following in England, contributing to the diverse sports landscape of the nation.
MLB players from Italy:
Jim McCormick
Danny Cox
12. Australia
Professional League: Baseball Australia (BA)
#Teams: 6
Australia, known for its iconic wildlife and vast landscapes, might surprise you with its thriving baseball culture. Baseball Australia (BA) bshas been instrumental in fostering the sport’s development, providing a platform for local talents to showcase their skills. On March 22nd, 2014, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks played in Sydney, in the first MLB regular season game in that country’s history. While cricket and Australian rules football dominate the sports scene, baseball has found its niche, with dedicated leagues and a growing community of enthusiasts.
MLB players from Australia:
Liam Hendriks
Grant Balfour
