The 2026 World Baseball Classic is set to kick off on March 5th, and it promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent from around the globe. With 20 nations, from powerhouses like Japan and the USA to the hopefuls of Israel and the Czech Republic, fans are in for a treat as these teams vie for the title of baseball supremacy.
Reflecting on last year’s tournament, Team Japan stood tall as champions, defeating Team USA in an electrifying final. However, the Americans are gearing up to reclaim glory for the first time since 2017, and there’s a wealth of talent at their disposal. So, let’s take a deep dive and craft the ultimate dream roster for Team USA.
Catchers: Adley Rutschman, Will Smith, Tyler Stephenson
When it comes to catchers, Adley Rutschman and Will Smith are the obvious front-runners. Smith, who had a role on the 2023 team behind J.T. Realmuto, is poised to step into a more significant role at age 30. Meanwhile, Rutschman has been instrumental in the Orioles’ ascendance in the American League, turning 28 just before the tournament.
The third spot is up for grabs, especially with J.T. Realmuto aging into his 34th year during the WBC. Among the contenders—Cal Raleigh, Tyler Stephenson, and Sean Murphy—Stephenson emerges as a solid choice for that crucial backup position.
Infielders: Bryce Harper, Mookie Betts, Bobby Witt Jr., Gunnar Henderson, Corey Seager, Jac Caglianone
For the infield, veterans Bryce Harper and Mookie Betts have been mainstays for Team USA, bringing both star power and experience. The lineup will be bolstered by youthful excitement in Gunnar Henderson and Bobby Witt Jr., two of the brightest young stars in the game today.
It’s surprising that Corey Seager has yet to represent Team USA in a WBC, given his status as one of the league’s elite shortstops since his debut. The final infield spot could go to a variety of young talents, but Jac Caglianone has shown enough promise to earn a place on this prestigious roster.
Outfielders: Aaron Judge, Michael Harris II, Jackson Merrill, Kyle Schwarber, Mike Trout, Dylan Crews
Aaron Judge has made his intentions clear: he wants to suit up for Team USA in 2026. The two-time MVP will anchor the outfield and provide a significant bat in the lineup.
Kyle Schwarber was a critical player during Team USA’s journey in 2023 and, while listed as an outfielder, his versatility leans towards a primary designated hitter role this time around.
Mike Trout, who embodied the spirit of Captain America last tournament, remains committed to contributing in 2026, provided the opportunity arises. As for the younger generation, Jackson Merrill, Michael Harris II, and Dylan Crews are all capable candidates to round out the outfield mix.
Starting Pitchers: Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, Corbin Burnes, Garrett Crochet, Hunter Greene, Andrew Painter
There’s nothing more iconic than Paul Skenes potentially taking the mound for the USA. After a historic rookie season, he’s on the fast track to being one of the game’s most elite pitchers. Pairing him with reigning Triple Crown and Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal would make for a potent one-two punch atop the rotation.
Veterans Corbin Burnes and Garrett Crochet add depth and experience to the starting lineup. Meanwhile, Hunter Greene has the makings of a Cy Young candidate if he can achieve consistency, and Andrew Painter—the eighth-ranked prospect in all of baseball—could provide invaluable support on the bump.
Bullpen: Mason Miller, Josh Hader, Tanner Scott, Ryan Helsley, Devin Williams, Jackson Jobe, Ben Joyce, Noah Schultz
In the bullpen, Devin Williams is the lone returning member from the 2023 squad. This experience will be crucial as a way to anchor the young arms.
A mix of seasoned pitchers like Josh Hader, Tanner Scott, and Ryan Helsley will bring the experience needed for late-game situations, while fresh talent in Mason Miller and Ben Joyce can inject new energy into the relief corps.
Prospects Jackson Jobe and Noah Schultz round out the bullpen with high upside; Jobe has already shown he can function in various pitching roles, and Schultz has all the tools to emerge as a top option for the White Sox, wherever he lands in the future.
As the countdown to March begins, excitement is palpable for Team USA’s quest to reclaim the championship. With such a dynamic blend of veterans and rising stars, the Americans are set to make a strong statement in 2026.
