Judge, Ohtani, Soto Lead World Baseball Classic Rosters
As the rosters for the 2026 World Baseball Classic were unveiled, the event highlighted the exceptional talent of the players involved. With 78 All-Stars and 190 major leaguers from 20 teams, stars like Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, and Ronald Acuña Jr. are set to take center stage.
Puerto Rico’s Notable Absences
Despite the excitement surrounding the tournament, several key players from Puerto Rico were notably absent. Francisco Lindor and Carlos Correa, both accomplished infielders with a combined eight All-Star appearances, were omitted due to injury-related insurance issues. Additionally, Javier Báez was ruled ineligible after failing a drug test during the previous tournament in 2023.
Insurance Challenges
- Jose Berrios, Alexis Diaz, and Emilio Pagan also missed the roster due to similar insurance issues.
- Venezuelan stars like Jose Altuve and Miguel Rojas faced the same fate.
- Mike Trout, captain of Team USA in 2023, was deemed unlikely to be insured.
Team USA’s Strong Lineup
Despite the absence of Trout, Team USA will feature a robust roster, aiming for redemption after their loss to Japan in 2023. Aaron Judge will lead a lineup that includes Cal Raleigh, Bobby Witt Jr., and Bryce Harper. The team boasts a standout pitching staff, led by Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes.
Ohtani’s Role
Shohei Ohtani, the two-way superstar, will not pitch for Japan this year due to previous elbow surgeries. However, he will take on the role of designated hitter. Japan’s pitching staff includes Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Hiromi Itoh, with six MVPs from the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league on the roster.
Dominican Republic’s Star-Studded Lineup
The Dominican Republic, managed by Albert Pujols, will enter the tournament with a formidable lineup. Notable outfield players include Juan Soto, Julio Rodríguez, and Fernando Tatis Jr. The infield features talents such as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Manny Machado. Their pitching staff has improved since the 2023 edition, led by Cristopher Sánchez and Sandy Alcantara.
Venezuela’s Competitive Roster
Even without Altuve, Venezuela is fielding a competitive team. Led by Ronald Acuña Jr., the squad also includes Eugenio Suárez and Luis Arraez. They aim to build on their dramatic quarterfinal loss to Team USA in 2023.
Team Mexico and Other Notable Participants
Team Mexico will showcase players like Alejandro Kirk and childhood friend Jonathan Aranda, both strong performers from Tijuana. Cuban outfielder Randy Arozarena, popular from the last tournament, is also on the roster.
Coaching Legends
- Andruw Jones will manage Team Netherlands, bringing a wealth of experience.
- Dusty Baker leads Nicaragua and may soon achieve Hall of Fame status.
A Historic Tournament
The 2026 World Baseball Classic marks the first time that all four reigning MVPs—Judge and Ohtani—and Cy Young winners—Skenes and Skubal—will participate. This unique aspect adds an exciting layer to an already competitive tournament.
As fans eagerly await the action, the stage is set for thrilling matchups among the world’s best players on baseball’s international platform.
