Red Sox's Garrett Crochet Opts Out of 2026 World Baseball Classic

Pitcher cites family and commitment to Red Sox as reasons for decision

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Boston Red Sox ace Garrett Crochet has decided not to participate in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic, citing the birth of his daughter and his commitment to the Red Sox as the main factors behind his decision. Crochet had initially planned to pitch for Team USA in the WBC but ultimately chose to focus on his family and the upcoming MLB season with the Red Sox.

Why it matters

Crochet's decision not to play in the WBC is a significant one, as he had been expected to be a key member of Team USA's pitching staff. His absence will be felt, but the Red Sox and their fans will be relieved to have their ace fully focused on the upcoming MLB season after his breakout 2025 campaign.

The details

Crochet, who was acquired by the Red Sox in a major trade prior to the 2025 season, had a standout year, posting an 18-5 record with a 2.59 ERA over 205.1 innings pitched. He led the majors in strikeouts with 255 and earned All-MLB First Team honors, finishing second in AL Cy Young voting. However, the birth of his daughter has led Crochet to prioritize his family and his commitment to the Red Sox over playing in the WBC.

  • Crochet had initially planned to pitch for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
  • Crochet's daughter was born in 2025, leading him to reconsider his WBC participation.

The players

Garrett Crochet

Boston Red Sox ace pitcher who had a breakout 2025 season, earning All-MLB First Team honors and finishing second in AL Cy Young voting.

Boston Red Sox

Major League Baseball team that acquired Crochet in a trade prior to the 2025 season, where he established himself as one of the American League's premier starting pitchers.

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What they’re saying

“Garrett Crochet says that he had plans in 2025 of being part of Team USA for the 2026 WBC but his decision came down to his family (newborn baby girl) and the Red Sox so he had to make the right decision and pass.”

— Garrett Crochet (The Boston Globe)

What’s next

Crochet will now focus his full attention on the upcoming 2026 MLB season with the Boston Red Sox, where he will look to build on his breakout 2025 campaign and help the team compete for a playoff spot.

The takeaway

Crochet's decision to prioritize his family and commitment to the Red Sox over playing in the World Baseball Classic demonstrates the difficult choices elite athletes sometimes have to make. While his absence will be felt by Team USA, the Red Sox and their fans will be relieved to have their ace fully focused on the upcoming MLB season.