2026 World Baseball Classic: Breaking Down Team Israel’s Roster and Key Players
As the 2026 World Baseball Classic approaches, Team Israel is gearing up for another run on the international stage-and this year’s squad has an intriguing mix of big-league experience, rising prospects, and a few arms that could surprise. With Brad Ausmus at the helm, Israel enters Pool D with a youthful, energetic roster and a chip on its shoulder.
Let’s dig into the roster, highlight the players to watch, and break down what makes this team one of the more compelling underdogs in the tournament.
Team Identity: Youth, Depth, and a Few Proven Names
Israel’s 2026 WBC roster leans young, with a heavy dose of prospects and minor leaguers, but there’s no shortage of professional seasoning. The pitching staff, while light on traditional starters, is loaded with bullpen depth-arms that can give you a clean inning or two and keep the game close against deeper lineups.
Leading the rotation is Dean Kremer, the Orioles right-hander who brings MLB experience and composure to a group that will likely rely on short stints and matchups. Kremer’s presence is critical-not just for his ability to eat innings, but for setting the tone in what could be high-leverage, low-margin games.
The lineup is anchored by two MLB regulars: Harrison Bader, now with the Giants, and Spencer Horwitz, a rising bat in the Pirates’ system. Both are coming off strong 2025 campaigns and figure to carry the offensive load.
Star Power: Harrison Bader and Spencer Horwitz
Let’s start with Bader. The nine-year MLB veteran is the centerpiece of this roster-and for good reason.
He’s fresh off what may have been the best season of his career, and his recent two-year deal with San Francisco shows the league still believes in his two-way value. Bader brings Gold Glove-caliber defense in center field, legitimate speed, and enough pop to change a game with one swing.
For a team like Israel, having a player who’s been in the postseason trenches matters.
As for Horwitz, his bat is trending up. After being acquired by the Pirates in a 2024 Winter Meetings deal that sent Andres Gimenez to Toronto, Horwitz slotted into Pittsburgh’s lineup and quietly produced.
He hit .272 with a .353 OBP and 11 homers-solid numbers that suggest he’s just scratching the surface. His plate discipline and contact skills make him a reliable presence in the middle of the order.
Prospects to Watch: RJ Schreck and Cole Carrigg
If you’re looking for breakout potential, keep your eyes on RJ Schreck. The outfielder spent most of 2025 with Triple-A Buffalo and brings a polished approach to the box.
He’s not just a slap hitter-Schreck has a strong bat-to-ball game, and when he connects, he can drive the ball with authority. His defensive versatility adds even more value, as he’s capable of handling all three outfield spots.
Then there’s Cole Carrigg, a Swiss Army knife who can line up just about anywhere on the field. Shortstop?
Outfield? Catcher?
Carrigg’s done it. His athleticism jumps off the page, and he brings a spark to the lineup with his speed and explosiveness.
He’s the kind of player who can make a difference in a tournament setting-whether it’s a key stolen base, a diving catch, or an unexpected extra-base hit.
Pitching Staff: Relief Depth Over Starters
While Kremer is the clear No. 1, Israel’s pitching strength lies in its bullpen.
Veterans like Tommy Kahnle and Robert Stock bring big-league experience, while younger arms like Charlie Beilenson, Matt Bowman, and Josh Mallitz offer depth and upside. Don’t expect many six-inning outings here-this staff is built for matchups and managing innings.
Eli Morgan, who’s spent time with the Royals’ Triple-A affiliate, adds another layer of experience and could be a swingman option. Lefties like Ryan Prager and Rob Kaminsky will be key for neutralizing left-handed bats in a pool that includes power-heavy lineups like Venezuela and the Dominican Republic.
Position Players: Depth, Versatility, and a Few X-Factors
Beyond Bader and Horwitz, Israel’s position group is full of players who can move around the diamond. Matt Mervis brings left-handed power at first base, while Jake Gelof and Noah Mendlinger provide corner infield options with offensive upside.
Behind the plate, the Stubbs brothers-Garrett and CJ-offer experience and stability. Garrett, currently with the Phillies, is a known commodity in MLB circles for his defense and clubhouse presence. CJ, in the Blue Jays’ system, adds depth and familiarity.
In the outfield, Troy Johnston, Zach Levenson, and Assaf Lowengart round out the group, each with the ability to provide timely offense and cover ground defensively.
Tournament Outlook: A Tough Pool, but Plenty of Fight
Israel is slotted into Pool D, which is no walk in the park. They’ll face Venezuela, the Dominican Republic, the Netherlands, and Nicaragua from March 6-11 in Miami. That’s a gauntlet of talent, especially with the Dominican and Venezuela bringing stacked rosters.
But Israel’s scrappy identity-plus a few big-league bats and a bullpen built for tournament play-gives them a puncher’s chance. If Kremer can set the tone and the offense finds timely hits, don’t be shocked if they make things interesting.
Final Thoughts
This version of Team Israel might not have the star-studded names of some other WBC squads, but there’s a clear identity here: a mix of youth, versatility, and a few proven veterans who know how to compete. With Brad Ausmus calling the shots, expect this team to play smart, aggressive baseball-and maybe, just maybe, pull off a surprise or two in Miami.