Red Sox Rookie Roman Anthony Shines with Team USA in World Baseball Classic

Manager Alex Cora explains why he wanted Anthony to play alongside MLB stars Aaron Judge and Kyle Schwarber

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:35pm

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Boston Red Sox rookie outfielder Roman Anthony is making waves playing for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. Red Sox manager Alex Cora revealed that he was eager for the 21-year-old slugger to join the national team, believing the experience of playing alongside superstars like Aaron Judge and Kyle Schwarber would be invaluable for Anthony's development.

Why it matters

The Red Sox have high expectations for Anthony, who is seen as a future superstar. Cora believes the chance to learn from established MLB stars like Judge and Schwarber will pay dividends for the young player and the Red Sox as he continues to grow and develop his skills.

The details

In 15 at-bats with Team USA so far, Anthony is batting .333 with a .474 on-base percentage, 5 hits, 1 home run, 6 RBIs, and 2 stolen bases. Cora said he was fully supportive of Anthony joining the national team, believing it was a unique opportunity for the young player to play alongside and learn from Judge and Schwarber.

  • Roman Anthony is currently playing for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

The players

Roman Anthony

A 21-year-old outfielder for the Boston Red Sox who is considered one of the top prospects in baseball.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox.

Aaron Judge

A superstar outfielder for the New York Yankees.

Kyle Schwarber

An All-Star outfielder for the Philadelphia Phillies.

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What they’re saying

“We had the conversation, and I was a full yes, go, when [Mark] DeRosa called me. Being around Judge and Kyle Schwarber is going to be very important [for Anthony's development]... Talk to Judge, talk to Schwarber, about facing lefties...”

— Alex Cora, Manager, Boston Red Sox (Foul Territory)

What’s next

Anthony will continue to play a key role for Team USA as they compete in the later rounds of the World Baseball Classic. His performance could provide a preview of what Red Sox fans can expect to see from the young star in the 2026 MLB season.

The takeaway

The Red Sox's decision to allow their top prospect Roman Anthony to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic is paying dividends, as the young slugger is thriving while learning from established MLB superstars like Aaron Judge and Kyle Schwarber. This experience could accelerate Anthony's development and help him make an even bigger impact for the Red Sox in the upcoming season.