UPDATE: Team USA is actively finalizing its roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, with Mike Trout‘s participation still uncertain. Manager Mark DeRosa announced Tuesday at the MLB winter meetings that Trout is “in the mix” for a final spot, pending his health and readiness.
Trout, a two-time American League MVP, is recovering from a bruised left knee that plagued him in the previous season, limiting him primarily to designated hitting. He posted 26 home runs over 130 games, but concerns about his .232/.359/.439 batting average and increased strikeout rate are raising questions about his availability for the upcoming tournament. The first game is scheduled for March 6, 2026, against Brazil in Houston.
DeRosa emphasized the importance of Trout’s well-being, stating, “He’s got to be ready for ’26 with the Angels.” The dilemma lies in balancing Trout’s commitment to Team USA with ensuring he is fit for the upcoming MLB season.
On Tuesday, Team USA announced the addition of four more players: designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, infielders Gunnar Henderson and Brice Turang, and catcher Will Smith. They join an impressive lineup that includes captain Aaron Judge and outfielders Corbin Carroll and Pete Crow-Armstrong.
On the pitching front, Paul Skenes, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, leads the U.S. roster, supported by left-hander Matthew Boyd and reliever Garrett Whitlock. General manager Mike Hill stated, “Now that we’re into the offseason and gearing up for the tournament, we’ll amp up our pitching process.”
Hill confirmed that Tarik Skubal, a two-time AL Cy Young Award winner, is a top target for the roster. “We want our best to participate,” he noted, underscoring the urgency to build a competitive team.
DeRosa emphasized that the focus is not just on star power but on constructing a balanced roster with the right mix of defense, speed, and versatility. The sting of a recent loss to Japan in the 2023 WBC final, where Trout struck out against Shohei Ohtani, continues to drive their efforts.
As Team USA weighs its options, the decision on Trout could significantly impact team dynamics and performance. The conversations are ongoing, and the baseball community awaits further updates on his status.
Stay tuned as we track this developing story and the final roster for Team USA’s thrilling World Baseball Classic journey.
