Rays Pitcher Uceta Out of World Baseball Classic

Shoulder issue keeps Tampa Bay reliever from participating in international tournament.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Tampa Bay Rays announced that relief pitcher Yacksel Uceta will not be able to pitch for the Dominican Republic in the upcoming World Baseball Classic due to a shoulder issue that has kept him sidelined at the start of spring training.

Why it matters

The World Baseball Classic is a prestigious international baseball tournament that features many of the sport's top stars. Uceta's absence is a blow to the Dominican Republic's pitching staff and reduces the Rays' depth in the bullpen as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season.

The details

Rays manager Kevin Cash said Uceta arrived at spring training with a "cranky shoulder" and will not be available to participate in the World Baseball Classic as a result. The Rays have not provided a timeline for Uceta's return to game action, but any extended absence could impact his readiness for the start of the regular season.

  • Uceta reported to Rays spring training with the shoulder issue.

The players

Yacksel Uceta

A relief pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays who was set to pitch for the Dominican Republic in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.

Kevin Cash

The manager of the Tampa Bay Rays.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Uceta arrived at camp with a "cranky shoulder" and won't be available to pitch for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic as a result.”

— Kevin Cash, Rays Manager (Tampa Bay Times)

What’s next

The Rays will monitor Uceta's shoulder injury and provide updates on his recovery timeline and potential return to game action.

The takeaway

Uceta's injury is a setback for both the Rays and the Dominican Republic's World Baseball Classic roster, highlighting the risks players face when competing in international tournaments during spring training.