As spring training heats up in Arizona, a number of Cubs players-and a few familiar faces-are set to step away from Sloan Park in early March to represent their countries in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. This year’s tournament will feature a strong North Side presence, with players suiting up for eight different national teams, showcasing the Cubs’ international reach and the depth of talent across the organization.
Team USA: A Trio of Cubs and a Familiar Face in the Dugout
Leading the Cubs contingent on Team USA is outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, whose elite defense and growing offensive game have made him one of the most exciting young players in the organization. Joining him is veteran third baseman Alex Bregman, the Cubs’ high-profile offseason addition, who brings championship experience and a steady bat to the American lineup. Lefty starter Matthew Boyd rounds out the trio, offering Team USA a seasoned arm capable of handling big-game pressure.
Also on the roster is former Cubs right-hander Brad Keller, and in the dugout, longtime Cubs fans will recognize a familiar face-David Ross. The former Cubs manager and 2016 World Series hero will serve as the bullpen coach for the U.S. squad, adding another layer of Cubs flavor to the American team.
Seiya Suzuki Joins Samurai Japan, Imanaga Stays Back
Seiya Suzuki will once again don the uniform of Samurai Japan, bringing his power and plate discipline to one of the tournament’s most fundamentally sound teams. However, Cubs left-hander Shōta Imanaga, who started the 2023 WBC championship game for Japan, won’t be joining him this time around. Instead, Imanaga is staying in Mesa to remain on his regular throwing schedule with the Cubs-a move that prioritizes his ramp-up for the MLB season.
Canada Calls on Taillon and Caissie
Jameson Taillon will represent Team Canada, thanks to his Canadian roots-both of his parents were born north of the border, even though Taillon himself is a Florida native. He’ll be joined by former Cubs prospect Owen Caissie, a powerful outfielder from suburban Toronto who remains one of Canada’s top young talents.
Jonathon Long Heads to Chinese Taipei
Jonathon Long, the Cubs’ 2025 Minor League Player of the Year, will suit up for Chinese Taipei. Long’s mother is Taiwanese, and the young slugger is coming off a breakout season in the minors. This WBC experience could be another important step in his development as he eyes a future role in the Cubs' big-league plans.
Palencia Anchors Venezuela’s Bullpen
Daniel Palencia, a hard-throwing right-hander who could very well open the season as the Cubs’ closer, will pitch for Venezuela. His high-octane fastball and aggressive approach out of the bullpen make him a valuable weapon for a Venezuelan team that’s always a threat in international play.
Assad Returns for Mexico
Javier Assad is back with Team Mexico after a strong showing in the 2023 WBC. While Assad could start the 2026 season at Triple-A Iowa, he remains a reliable depth option for the Cubs and a key piece for Mexico’s rotation in the tournament.
BJ Murray Represents Great Britain
BJ Murray, who spent last season with Double-A Knoxville, will play for Great Britain. Born in the Bahamas, Murray is eligible through the British Commonwealth and brings versatility and pop to the British infield. This could be a big showcase for a player looking to climb the organizational ladder.
Italy Brings in a Former Cub as Coach
While Anthony Rizzo won’t be playing for Italy-despite some early buzz-there will still be a Cubs connection. Former prospect Alex Maestri, who spent several years in the Cubs’ system before pitching overseas, will serve as Team Italy’s pitching coach. Italy will face the Cubs in an exhibition game on March 3 at Sloan Park before heading to pool play in Houston.
Yacksel Rios Joins Puerto Rico’s Staff
Right-hander Yacksel Rios, signed by the Cubs to a minor-league deal this offseason, will pitch for Puerto Rico. Rios brings big-league experience from stints with the Phillies, Pirates, Red Sox, A’s, and Mariners between 2017 and 2023. He’ll look to impress both his national team and the Cubs’ front office during the tournament.
Miguel Amaya Suits Up for Panama
Catcher Miguel Amaya will represent his native Panama, adding another international assignment to his resume. Amaya has been working to solidify his role behind the plate in Chicago, and this WBC opportunity gives him valuable reps against top-tier competition.
With so many Cubs players and alumni involved, the 2026 World Baseball Classic will be more than just a global baseball showcase-it’ll be a chance for fans to see how Chicago’s talent stacks up on the world stage. Whether it’s prospects gaining experience, veterans leading their squads, or coaches bringing their knowledge to the dugout, the Cubs’ fingerprints are all over this tournament. And for a team looking to turn the corner in 2026, that kind of exposure and competition could pay dividends when Opening Day rolls around.