Team USA Reveals Stacked Roster for 2026 World Baseball Classic

Loaded with MLB stars, Team USA aims to avenge 2023 loss to Japan

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Team USA has assembled a star-studded roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, featuring a mix of returning players and new additions like Aaron Judge, Bryce Harper, and Cal Raleigh. The pitching staff has also been bolstered, with reigning Cy Young winners Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes leading the rotation. Manager Mark DeRosa is confident the team can avenge their 2023 loss to Japan and bring home the title.

Why it matters

The World Baseball Classic is a prestigious international tournament that showcases the best baseball talent from around the world. Team USA's strong roster makes them the favorites to win the 2026 edition, but they will face stiff competition from other powerhouses like Japan, the Dominican Republic, and Venezuela.

The details

Team USA's lineup is loaded with MLB stars, including shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., slugger Kyle Schwarber, first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, and catcher Will Smith, who are returning from the 2023 squad. They'll be joined by the likes of Aaron Judge, Bryce Harper, and Cal Raleigh, among others. The team's pitching staff has also been bolstered, with Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes, the reigning Cy Young winners, leading the rotation. However, Skubal will only make one start, with Skenes expected to make two.

  • The 2026 World Baseball Classic will be held from March 5-17.
  • Tarik Skubal said he'll only make one start during the group stage.
  • Paul Skenes expects to make two starts during the tournament.

The players

Bobby Witt Jr.

Kansas City Royals shortstop, returning from the 2023 squad.

Kyle Schwarber

Philadelphia Phillies slugger, returning from the 2023 squad.

Paul Goldschmidt

New York Yankees first baseman, returning from the 2023 squad.

Will Smith

Los Angeles Dodgers catcher, returning from the 2023 squad.

Aaron Judge

One of the world's best players, joining Team USA for the 2026 WBC.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.