The Cincinnati Reds won’t be flooding the World Baseball Classic with talent this year - just six players from the organization are set to take part in the international tournament next month, one of the lowest totals across Major League Baseball. And of those six, only two are on the Reds’ 40-man roster: Eugenio Suárez and Edwin Arroyo. Suárez is a veteran presence who’s no stranger to the WBC stage, while Arroyo, a promising young shortstop, has yet to play above Double-A.
But the low number isn’t just a result of roster makeup - it’s also about choice. According to reporting out of Cincinnati, several Reds players turned down the opportunity to represent their countries this time around.
One of the most notable names is Elly De La Cruz, who expressed interest in playing but ultimately didn’t receive the green light from the club. The Reds, it seems, are keeping their eye firmly on the 2026 season.
That same mindset influenced decisions from key pitchers. Starters Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo were both invited to join their respective national teams but declined, citing a desire to stay locked in on spring training and preparation for the upcoming MLB campaign. Reliever Emilio Pagán also passed on the WBC, despite having previously suited up for Puerto Rico in both the 2017 and 2023 tournaments.
The WBC kicks off March 6, with most teams opening play on March 7. While the Reds won’t be heavily represented, the players who are participating will still bring some intrigue.
Suárez will suit up for Team Venezuela in Pool D, continuing his tradition of representing his home country on the international stage. Arroyo joins Team Puerto Rico in Pool A - a big opportunity for the young shortstop to gain experience against high-level competition.
Utilityman Ivan Johnson, who’s spent the last two seasons in Triple-A with Louisville, will play for Team Great Britain in Pool B. Alexander Vargas, another shortstop in the Reds’ system, will be in Pool A with Team Cuba. Right-hander David Lorduy is set to pitch for Team Colombia, also in Pool A.
The youngest of the Reds' WBC contingent is pitcher Ryjeteri Merite, who will be on the mound for Team Netherlands in Pool D. It’s a big stage for a young arm, and a chance to see how he handles the spotlight.
There’s also a potential late addition to keep an eye on: Irvin Machuca, who spent much of 2025 with High-A Dayton, is listed on Team Mexico’s “Designated Pitcher Pool.” That means he could be called up as an injury replacement or roster addition as the tournament progresses.
While the Reds won’t be sending a large group to the WBC, the players who are heading overseas will bring valuable experience back to the clubhouse. And for those staying behind? The message is clear - 2026 is the focus.