Santo Domingo – Right-handed pitcher Jameson Taillon has confirmed his intention to represent Canada in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, which strengthens the rotation of a team looking to excel in the national team tournament.
Taillon, recognized in the Major Leagues, is shaping up to be a key piece for the Canadian pitching staff, which aims for a more solid performance in the championship that will begin in March.
Japan Fine-Tunes its Squad
The current champion, Japan, continues to prepare its team to defend its title. Manager Hirokazu Ibata announced in Tokyo the addition of seven pitchers to his roster.
Among the pitchers are Yusei Kikuchi, from the Angels, and Yuki Matsui, from the Padres, both with MLB experience.
- Hiromi Ito (Nippon Ham Fighters)
- Kaima Taira (Seibu Lions)
- Atsuki Taneichi (Chiba Lotte Marines)
- Taisei Ota (Yomiuri Giants)
- Daichi Ishii (Hanshin Tigers)
One of the biggest questions is Shohei Ohtani’s participation as a pitcher. Although Ohtani has expressed his desire to play, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts suggested that he might focus on hitting, at least at first.
Ohtani was the 2023 Classic MVP, where he batted .435 with an OPS of 1.345 and recorded a 2-0 record with an ERA of 1.86.
Bryce Harper Joins the United States
Bryce Harper has announced his intention to play for the United States in the 2026 Classic. The Phillies outfielder, who already represented his country in lower categories, expressed his enthusiasm on social media.
Harper did not participate in the 2023 edition due to elbow surgery, but now returns after a season with 27 home runs and an OPS of .844.
If his participation is confirmed, he would join a team that would feature Aaron Judge, Kyle Schwarber and the 2025 Cy Young winners Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes.
The United States will debut in Group B on March 6 in Houston against Brazil, on their way to the world title.
