Team USA is wasting no time assembling a powerhouse roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic-and the arms they’re stacking are nothing short of elite. With the tournament just a few months away, the pitching staff is taking shape, and it’s already looking like a nightmare matchup for opposing lineups.
Earlier this week, lefty ace Tarik Skubal and flamethrowing right-hander Mason Miller officially committed to Team USA, and they’re not coming alone. On Thursday, Yankees closer David Bednar added his name to the mix, bolstering a bullpen that’s quickly becoming one of the most intimidating in the tournament.
Let’s start with Bednar. He’s been a force in the late innings since taking over closing duties with the Pirates back in 2021, and his 2023 season was nothing short of dominant-39 saves, a 2.00 ERA, and the kind of mound presence that makes hitters uncomfortable before they even step in the box.
After a midseason trade to the Yankees, he didn’t miss a beat. In 22 appearances, he posted a 2.30 ERA, a 1.04 WHIP, and locked down 10 more saves.
That’s the kind of consistency you want anchoring the back end of a bullpen in a high-stakes international tournament.
And speaking of high-octane arms, Mason Miller brings some serious gas. The Padres reliever routinely touches 103 MPH, and it’s not just velocity-he’s got the stuff and command to match.
Miller could be a lights-out setup man for Bednar, or even a multi-inning weapon depending on how Team USA decides to deploy him. Either way, opposing hitters are going to have to gear up early and hope for the best.
Garrett Whitlock is also expected to be part of the bullpen crew, giving the group even more depth and versatility. With more names expected to join in the coming days, it’s clear Team USA is building a bullpen that can lock down leads and shorten games in a hurry.
But it’s not just the bullpen that’s turning heads-the rotation is shaping up to be just as lethal. Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes, both reigning Cy Young winners, are expected to headline the starting staff.
That’s a one-two punch that could rival any team in the tournament. Add in Joe Ryan, Clay Holmes, and Nolan McLean, and you’ve got a rotation that blends power, precision, and poise.
Mathew Boyd is also expected to join the group, adding a veteran presence to a staff that already has sky-high potential.
Miller, for his part, is clearly fired up about teaming up with Skubal on the international stage. “That’s THE guy you want representing your country,” he said-short, sweet, and absolutely right.
With the roster already more than halfway filled and more elite talent on the way, Team USA is putting together a squad that looks ready to defend its title-and maybe even raise the bar. March can't come soon enough.
Stay tuned. This is going to be fun.