The World Baseball Classic is back this March, and if the newly announced rosters are any indication, we’re in for a tournament loaded with star power, rising talent, and international flair. From reigning MVPs to top prospects still cutting their teeth in the minors, the WBC is shaping up to be a true global showcase - and yes, the Oakland A’s are well represented.
Let’s start with the headliners. For the first time in WBC history, all four reigning MVP and Cy Young Award winners are suiting up.
That’s right - Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, and Aaron Judge will don the red, white, and blue for Team USA, while Shohei Ohtani is once again anchoring Team Japan. Add in 78 former MLB All-Stars - including 36 who made last year’s Midsummer Classic - and you’ve got a tournament that feels more like an All-Star Game with national pride on the line.
Team USA leads the way with 22 All-Stars on its roster, but the talent is spread across the globe. And for A’s fans, there’s plenty to keep an eye on.
A’s Prospects Shine on the International Stage
Oakland’s farm system will be front and center for Chinese Taipei, with three Top 30 prospects earning roster spots: Wei-En Lin (No. 19), Tzu-Chen Sha (No. 28), and Chen Zhong-Ao Zhuang (No.
29). That’s a trio of young arms who’ve been quietly developing in the A’s system, now getting a chance to test their stuff against some of the world’s best hitters.
It’s not just a developmental opportunity - it’s a proving ground.
Meanwhile, the Dominican Republic’s roster features two pitchers from the A’s 25-man squad: Elvis Alvarado and Luis Severino. Alvarado’s electric fastball and Severino’s veteran savvy could be a potent combo in a tournament where pitching depth often makes the difference.
Familiar Faces in New Jerseys
A few more names that will catch the attention of A’s fans: Denzel Clarke is suiting up for Team Canada, bringing his athleticism and power to a lineup that’s quietly dangerous. Darell Hernaiz will join Puerto Rico’s infield corps, while Carlos Cortes - another versatile piece - also made the Puerto Rican squad.
Joey Meneses, who’s become a fan favorite with Team Mexico, is in the mix again. And don’t overlook Max Durrington (Australia), Brayan Buelvas (Colombia), or James Gonzalez (Panama) - all of whom are getting a shot to represent their countries and gain valuable experience on baseball’s international stage.
Full List of A’s Players in the WBC:
- Elvis Alvarado (Dominican Republic)
- Brayan Buelvas (Colombia)
- Denzel Clarke (Canada)
- Carlos Cortes (Puerto Rico)
- Max Durrington (Australia)
- James Gonzalez (Panama)
- Darell Hernaiz (Puerto Rico)
- Wei-En Lin (Chinese Taipei)
- Joey Meneses (Mexico)
- Luis Severino (Dominican Republic)
- Tzu-Chen Sha (Chinese Taipei)
- Chen Zhong-Ao Zhuang (Chinese Taipei)
Tournament Details
The WBC kicks off March 5 at the Tokyo Dome, with the rest of the pools getting underway a day later on March 6. Games will be held at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan, Daikin Park in Houston, and loanDepot Park in Miami. The championship rounds will also be held in Miami, a fitting site for what should be a dramatic finish.
Whether you’re watching to see your favorite MLB stars chase glory or checking in on the A’s next wave of talent, there’s no shortage of storylines. The WBC isn’t just a warm-up for the MLB season - it’s a high-stakes, high-energy tournament that brings out the best in players and fans alike.
And for the A’s, it’s a chance to see how their young core stacks up on the world stage.