United States Bolsters Roster for 2026 World Baseball Classic
The United States selection continues to strengthen its squad for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, after announcing the incorporation of three of the most outstanding pitchers in Major League Baseball: Tarik Skubal, Mason Miller and David Bednar.
These three pitchers confirmed their commitment to Team USA, which seeks to assemble a top-tier pitching staff with the goal of conquering the Classic title again.
With these additions, the United States will have the 2025 Cy Young Award winners in its starting rotation: Skubal, winner in the American League with the Detroit Tigers, and Paul Skenes, who won the award in the National League with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Skubal arrives after an outstanding season in 2025, where he recorded a 13-6 record, an ERA of 2.21, and achieved 241 strikeouts. In the last two years, the left-hander has established himself as one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball.A High-Voltage Bullpen
The American bullpen also looks imposing with the inclusion of Mason Miller, considered one of the most intimidating closers in MLB. In the 2025 season, the right-hander recorded an ERA of 2.63 in 60 appearances, with 104 strikeouts in 61.2 innings. His fastball averaged 101.2 miles per hour, being the only pitcher to exceed 104 mph during the season.
David Bednar also joins this group, becoming a key piece of the Yankees’ bullpen after his arrival from the Pirates at the 2025 Trade Deadline. In five postseason appearances, Bednar posted an ERA of 1.50, providing experience and solidity in crucial moments.A Team Full of Stars
In addition to the stellar pitching staff, the United States lineup for the 2026 Classic will feature top-tier figures, led by captain Aaron Judge, along with Bobby Witt Jr. and Cal Raleigh, among other prominent names.
The United States, which won the World Baseball Classic in 2017 and was runner-up in the 2023 edition, will seek to return to the top of the tournament.
Team USA’s debut in the 2026 World Baseball Classic will be on March 6, when they face Brazil at 8:00 PM (ET) at Daikin Park in Houston, within Group B.
