Benjamin Gil is confident in Team Mexico
-
Ángel Cantú, Contributor
- March 6, 2026
Benjamin Gil chases another historic run
HOUSTON – Benjamin Gil hasn’t coached in Major League Baseball since 2023, when he was part of the Angels’ organization. At that time the Tijuana, Mexico, native had aspirations of managing in the majors.
After a few interviews and success leading Mexico to the semifinals of the 2023 World Baseball Classic, he was unable to land a managerial jobs in the majors.
Gil went to the Mexican Winter League and found managerial success. The former journeyman won the Liga Pacifica de Mexico with the Tomateros de Culiacan and recently won the title with Los Charros de Jalisco. He also won the 2026 Caribbean Series after he beat Los Tomateros.
After being rejected from managerial positions in the majors, Benji Gil is chasing history. He has the opportunity to become second manager to win titles in winter league, the Caribbean Series and the World Baseball Classic.
Chasing rare triple
Only the Dominican Republic’s Tony Peña has accomplished the feat. A humble Gil remained determined that this feat is bigger than himself.
“At the end of the day, nothing is for personal gains,” Gil said. “What has been accomplished is because of the great work from our players, the coaching staff and the directors. To win the World Baseball Classic would be a historical moment for Mexico.”
With Gil, 53, at the helm, Team Mexico has defied expectations. Three years ago Mexico had the best performance in its WBC history. El Tri reached the semifinals after upsetting Puerto Rico.
They lost a thriller in the semifinals against Shohei Ohtani and Japan, which beat the United States to claim its third WBC.
Three years ago, All-Star Randy Arozarena led a Mexican roster that was filled with up-and-comers. Now the roster includes six All-Stars.
“We are a team that is here to win and compete for the championship, not compete in the tournament, but fight for the championship,” Gil said.
Mexican All-Stars
Cubs right-hander Javier Assad will start Friday afternoon against Great Britain at Daikin Park. Gil will rely on Taijuan Walker to start the second game. Mexico hopes to hand leads over to Andres Muñoz to close the games.
Mexico’s manager will have Alejandro Kirk, Arozarena, Jarren Duran and Jonathan Aranda in the lineup. The hope is for these All-Stars to propel Mexico’s offense.
While Mexico’s record in WBC openers has been subpar with four losses and a lone win, Assad is ready to change their fortunes in front of their loyal fans in Houston.
MORE FROM OUR ESQUINA
Tijuana’s Alejandro Kirk, Jonathan Aranda live out childhood dreams
Alejandro Kirk defies stereotypes, inspires a continent
Mariners reliever Andres Muñoz benefits from brothers
“I’m proud and grateful for the team for giving me this opportunity,” Assad said. “I feel good, happy and prepared.
“I was able to go home and prepare, and I feel good for these moments.”
Unlike in past years, many people expect Mexico to advance to the quarterfinals along with Team USA. Gil hasn’t been shy about expressing the confidence.
“We are starting with our ace Javier Assad, who will give us a great chance to win,” Gil said. “If we play our type of baseball with the talented players, who are dedicated and focused, and we do our job on the field the positive results will show.”
Ángel Cantú
Contributor
Our Esquina contributor Ángel Cantú is a co-host for the Full Seam Ahead podcast. He joined Teach for America after graduating from Texas A&M University. He is currently a fourth grade teacher at KIPP Public Schools in Houston.
Stay in the Loop
Get the Our Esquina Email Newsletter
By submitting your email, you are agreeing to receive additional communications and exclusive content from Our Esquina. You can unsubscribe at any time.