Let's dive into the exciting potential for Team USA in the next World Baseball Classic, where they might just have found a promising arm to bolster their pitching lineup. After falling short in the finals for the second time in a row, the addition of Milwaukee Brewers' standout Jacob Misiorowski could be just what they need alongside Paul Skenes.
Misiorowski recently shared on The Pat McAfee Show his enthusiasm for possibly joining Team USA, describing the World Baseball Classic as "electric" and expressing his eagerness to be part of the action if given the chance.
Now, let's talk about why Misiorowski is turning heads. He burst onto the MLB scene in 2025, making an unforgettable debut with five no-hit innings against the St.
Louis Cardinals. His rapid rise to stardom was cemented when he earned an All-Star Game nod after just five starts, setting a new record for the fastest selection in league history.
In his rookie season, Misiorowski posted a 5-3 record with a 4.36 ERA and racked up 87 strikeouts. But it was in the playoffs where he truly shined, handling the pressure like a seasoned pro. Over three appearances, he allowed just two runs in 12 innings, including a standout five-inning relief performance against the eventual champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, striking out nine.
Misiorowski's adaptability, showcased by his shift to the bullpen during the postseason, is a quality Team USA could greatly benefit from. This flexibility is particularly valuable given the challenges they faced with pitcher availability in the last Classic. Notably, reigning Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal's early departure and closer Mason Miller's restricted use by the Padres left the team in a bind.
With his talent and versatility, Misiorowski could be the key to strengthening Team USA's pitching depth, making them a formidable force in their next World Baseball Classic campaign.