World Baseball Classic Trophy unveiled, how does it compare to past designs?

For the first time since 2017, the World Baseball Classic is set to return this March, with the United States of America looking to defend its crown. The last time the tournament was held, the United States defeated Puerto Rico, 8-0, at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.

As the anticipation for the tournament grows, the World Baseball Classic unveiled a new re-vitalized take on its stunning trophy. While similar to previous designs, the 2023 iteration of the international tournament's top prize is a sleeker and sharper version of the 2017 version.

"The World Baseball Classic Trophy is making a stop at MLB NYC. It will be here from Wednesday to Friday, stop by to check it out! #MLBStoreNYC #WorldBaseballClassic" - MLB Store

Compared to the 2017 version, the 2023 trophy has a gold star surrounding a ball in the middle of a four-point star. The combination of gold and silver pops more than previous versions of the prize. While the other trophies were nothing to scoff at, the latest design is simply superior.

For fans hoping to catch a glimpse of the trophy before it makes its way to the tournament, the World Baseball Classic championship will be on display at the MLB Flagship Store in New York City until Friday, Feb. 24.

The 2023 trophy is a massive upgrade over the diminutive version that was handed out to Team Japan in 2006. The original trophy looked much cheaper and less prestigious, as it featured a baseball design in the middle of the award. That being said, the iconic swirling design was present in the 2006 version, however, the designers for this year's top prize have perfected it.

"Team Japan, World Baseball Classic 2006" - St. Abner

Which nations will be present during the 2023 World Baseball Classic?

The WBC will feature 20 national teams from across the globe, and will be separated into four different pools. Pool A will be played at Taichung Stadium, in Taipei, Taiwan. Pool B will be played at the Tokyo Dome, in Tokyo, Japan. Pools C and D will be played in the United States, with Pool C playing in Phoenix, Arizona, and Pool D will be played in Miami, Florida.

"Mike Trout vs Patrick Sandoval. Team USA and Team Mexico are in the same pool for the WBC btw." - Sarah Valenzuela

Chinese Taipei, Japan, USA, Puerto Rico, Cuba, South Korea, Mexico, Venezuela, Netherlands, Australia, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Italy, China, Canada, Israel, Panama, Czech Republic, Great Britain, and Nicaragua will all be play in this year's tournament.