Tarik Skubal is set to wear red, white, and blue in 2026.
The Detroit Tigers’ ace and reigning back-to-back AL Cy Young winner has officially committed to pitch for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. It’ll mark Skubal’s first time representing the United States on the international stage, and he’s joining a roster that’s already shaping up to be one of the most star-studded in tournament history.
Let’s be clear: this is a massive addition. Skubal isn’t just a name-he’s been one of the most dominant arms in baseball over the past two seasons. His blend of power, precision, and poise has made him a nightmare for hitters across the American League, and now he’ll be anchoring a Team USA rotation that’s starting to look downright scary.
He’ll be joined at the top of the rotation by Paul Skenes, the electric young right-hander who’s quickly become must-watch baseball. Joe Ryan is also expected to be in the mix, giving Team USA a strong blend of experience and upside on the mound.
But it’s not just the pitching that’s turning heads. The lineup is loaded with firepower.
We’re talking about MVP-caliber bats like Aaron Judge and rising stars like Bobby Witt Jr. and Gunnar Henderson. Add in the raw speed of Corbin Carroll, the left-handed pop of Kyle Schwarber, the steady presence of Cal Raleigh behind the plate, and the high-octane arm of Mason Miller, and you’ve got a roster that looks ready to make a deep run.
Team USA will compete in Pool B, with games set to take place at Daikin Park in Houston. They’ll face off against Mexico, Italy, Great Britain, and Brazil in group play, with their first game scheduled for March 6 against Brazil.
This will be the sixth edition of the World Baseball Classic, and the stakes feel higher than ever. With Skubal on board, Team USA just got a whole lot tougher.
For Skubal, it’s a chance to showcase his talent on a global stage. For fans, it’s a chance to see one of the game’s best lefties go to work in a tournament that’s quickly becoming one of baseball’s premier events.
One more note: Skubal is set to hit free agency after the 2026 season. That’s a conversation for another day, but it adds an interesting layer to his WBC appearance-especially if he continues to dominate the way he has the past two years.
Bottom line: Team USA just got a major boost. And with Skubal leading the charge, the rest of the world should be on notice.