The World Baseball Classic has produced countless memorable moments since the tournament debuted in 2006. While many fans remember David Wright’s iconic “Captain America” performance in 2013, the beloved New York Mets third baseman didn’t play enough games in the tournament to claim any all-time records.
However, several other players who once wore a Mets uniform have left their names in the WBC record books.
Here are three former Mets who still hold notable tournament records.
Carlos Beltrán — Most Games Played (28)
Few players embraced the World Baseball Classic the way Carlos Beltrán did.
The legendary outfielder represented Puerto Rico in multiple tournaments and holds the record for most games played in WBC history with 28.
Beltrán also ranks second all-time in WBC hits with 30, further highlighting his consistency on the international stage.
Despite his long WBC résumé, Beltrán still fell just short of the record for tournament appearances. He competed in four WBC events, one fewer than Miguel Cabrera, who appeared in five.
Beltrán’s leadership and clutch performances helped elevate Puerto Rico into one of the tournament’s most competitive teams.
Yoenis Céspedes — Most Triples (3)
Power hitters aren’t usually known for piling up triples.
Yet former Mets slugger Yoenis Céspedes sits atop the WBC leaderboard with three career triples, an unusual record for a player better known for his home-run power.
Céspedes achieved the feat while representing Cuba, showcasing both his athleticism and aggressive base running.
Considering the tournament’s short format and limited number of games, it’s surprising that no other player has surpassed that mark yet.
Daisuke Matsuzaka — Dominant Pitching Records
Daisuke “Dice-K” Matsuzaka, who briefly pitched for the Mets in 2013 and 2014, owns several of the most impressive pitching records in World Baseball Classic history.
His achievements include:
- 6 games started (record)
- 6 wins (record)
- 23 strikeouts (record)
Even more remarkable, Matsuzaka won all six of the games he started, making him a perfect 6–0 in WBC play.
He was a central figure in Japan’s championship runs in 2006 and 2009, earning MVP honors in both tournaments and cementing his legacy as one of the event’s greatest performers.
Records That May Last
With the tournament expanding and more MLB stars participating each year, some of these records could eventually fall.
However, Matsuzaka’s perfect six wins in six starts may prove especially difficult to surpass, given how rarely pitchers receive that many opportunities in the short tournament format.
For Mets fans, these records serve as a reminder that several players who once wore the team’s uniform have also made lasting contributions on baseball’s international stage. ⚾
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