Tigers Star Javier Baez Banned from 2026 WBC After Failed Drug Test

Baez takes responsibility for positive marijuana test, says it 'hurts my family, my reputation'

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Detroit Tigers star Javier Baez has been suspended from the 2026 World Baseball Classic after testing positive for marijuana during the 2023 WBC. Baez is taking full responsibility for the failed drug test, saying it's 'all my fault' and that it 'really hurts my family, my reputation.' Marijuana use is allowed under MLB's drug policy but is prohibited by the WBC's governing body.

Why it matters

Baez's suspension is a major blow to Team Puerto Rico, which has twice finished as runner-up in the WBC. The team has already lost other star players like Carlos Correa and Francisco Lindor due to insurance issues. Baez had hoped to represent Puerto Rico in the tournament in front of his home fans, calling it 'one of my dreams.'

The details

Baez failed the drug test during the 2023 WBC. While he understands the WBC's rules, he says he wasn't taking anything to 'last longer or whatever.' Baez will now shift his focus to the upcoming MLB season with the Tigers, which starts in late March.

  • Baez failed the drug test during the 2023 WBC.
  • Baez is suspended from the 2026 WBC as a result of the failed test.

The players

Javier Baez

A star player for the Detroit Tigers who was suspended from the 2026 World Baseball Classic after failing a drug test for marijuana during the 2023 tournament.

Team Puerto Rico

The Puerto Rican national baseball team that has twice finished as runner-up in the World Baseball Classic, but will now be without Baez for the 2026 tournament.

World Baseball Softball Confederation

The governing body of the World Baseball Classic that prohibits the use of marijuana, leading to Baez's suspension.

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What they’re saying

“I don't want to point fingers at anybody because this is all my fault. I'm the one that failed the test … It's just really frustrating that I won't be able to be there.”

— Javier Baez, Detroit Tigers Player (The Athletic)

“It really hurts my family, my reputation, but it's part of it. Other than that, I got a long season to go, and I got to prepare for that.”

— Javier Baez, Detroit Tigers Player (The Athletic)

“One of my dreams is to play in Puerto Rico for Team Puerto Rico with our families, our fans, our island. Nothing I can do. I'm just happy for all of my teammates that got the chance to represent. I wish them good luck.”

— Javier Baez, Detroit Tigers Player (The Athletic)

What’s next

The World Baseball Softball Confederation will determine if Baez's suspension can be reduced or appealed before the 2026 WBC.

The takeaway

Baez's failed drug test highlights the complex issues surrounding marijuana use in professional sports, where policies can differ between leagues. While MLB allows it, the WBC prohibits it, leading to Baez's suspension and a major blow to Puerto Rico's national team.