Tigers' Javier Baez Suspended from 2026 World Baseball Classic

Baez breaks silence after being ruled out of tournament due to marijuana use

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Detroit Tigers utility player Javier Baez has been suspended from participating in the 2026 World Baseball Classic due to a positive marijuana test. Baez, who has played for Team Puerto Rico in the past two WBC tournaments, is accepting responsibility for the failed test and will not be able to represent his home country in the upcoming games.

Why it matters

Baez is a key player for the Puerto Rican national team, having been named to the All-World Baseball Classic team in 2017 and 2023. His absence will be a significant blow to Puerto Rico's chances in the tournament, which features the top baseball talent from around the world.

The details

Baez was hoping to play for Team Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, which is set to begin on March 5. However, he was suspended from the tournament due to a positive marijuana test. Baez has acknowledged that the failed test is "all my fault" and that he is "really frustrating" about not being able to participate. While Baez will not face any punishment from MLB, as marijuana is not a banned substance, his suspension from the WBC means he will miss out on the opportunity to represent his home country on the international stage.

  • The 2026 World Baseball Classic is set to kick off on March 5.
  • Baez's suspension from the tournament was announced over a week ago, on February 17, 2026.

The players

Javier Baez

A utility player for the Detroit Tigers who has previously represented Team Puerto Rico in the 2017 and 2023 World Baseball Classic tournaments, where he was named to the All-World Baseball Classic team.

Team Puerto Rico

The national baseball team of Puerto Rico, which has qualified for the World Baseball Classic in the past and features some of the top Puerto Rican players in Major League Baseball.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I don't want to point fingers (at) anybody because this is all my fault. I'm the one that failed the test … It's just really frustrating that I won't be able to be there and be able to be part of this.”

— Javier Baez, Detroit Tigers Player (The Athletic)

What’s next

Baez will now focus his full attention on the upcoming MLB season with the Detroit Tigers, who are expected to be contenders in the American League in 2026.

The takeaway

Baez's suspension from the World Baseball Classic highlights the challenges athletes face when it comes to navigating the rules and regulations around substance use, even when the substance in question is legal in some jurisdictions. His absence will be a significant blow to Puerto Rico's chances in the tournament.