Cardinals' Iván Herrera Unlikely for World Baseball Classic Due to Insurance Issue

Catcher's offseason surgery complicates his ability to compete for Team Panama

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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St. Louis Cardinals catcher Iván Herrera is unlikely to participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic due to an insurance issue stemming from his offseason surgery. Cardinals president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom stated that Herrera has not been able to receive the necessary insurance coverage to compete in the international tournament, and a final resolution is still pending, but the current outlook suggests he will not be cleared to play for Team Panama.

Why it matters

Herrera's potential absence from the World Baseball Classic is the latest in a growing list of high-profile players who will miss the event for various reasons, including injuries and suspensions. His situation highlights the complex insurance and medical clearance issues that can arise for professional athletes participating in international competitions.

The details

Herrera, a key catcher for the St. Louis Cardinals, had hoped to play for Team Panama in the World Baseball Classic. However, the insurance issue stemming from his offseason surgery has clouded his status for the tournament. Cardinals officials are still awaiting a final resolution, but the current outlook suggests Herrera will not be able to compete.

  • On February 13, 2026, Cardinals president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom announced that Herrera had not yet been able to receive the necessary insurance to compete in the World Baseball Classic.

The players

Iván Herrera

A catcher for the St. Louis Cardinals who had hoped to play for Team Panama in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Chaim Bloom

The president of baseball operations for the St. Louis Cardinals, who provided the update on Herrera's status for the World Baseball Classic.

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What they’re saying

“Iván Herrera has to date not been able to receive insurance to compete in the WBC due to his offseason surgery. Waiting on a final resolution in the coming days but as of now it appears unlikely that he'll be able to play.”

— Jeff Jones, Reporter (Belleville News-Democrat)

What’s next

Cardinals officials are still awaiting a final resolution on Herrera's insurance coverage, which will determine if he is cleared to participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

The takeaway

Herrera's potential absence from the World Baseball Classic highlights the complex medical and insurance issues that can arise for professional athletes competing in international tournaments. This situation underscores the need for clear policies and procedures to ensure player safety and eligibility.