Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal Lead Team USA for 2026 World Baseball Classic
The anticipation for the 2026 World Baseball Classic is building as Team USA finalizes its pitching rotation. Manager Mark DeRosa has announced his starting pitchers for the opening pool games. The rotation features standout players from Major League Baseball, including Paul Skenes and Tarik Skubal.
Team USA’s Pitching Rotation
- Game 1: Logan Webb vs. Brazil
- Game 2: Tarik Skubal vs. Britain
- Game 3: Paul Skenes vs. Mexico
- Game 4: Nolan McLean vs. Italy (subject to change due to illness)
Logan Webb of the San Francisco Giants will take the mound first against Brazil. Following him, Detroit Tigers’ Tarik Skubal is scheduled to pitch in the second game against Britain. The rotation wraps up with Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates facing Mexico in the third game.
Pitching Strategy and Considerations
DeRosa has noted that while the rotation is set, there are restrictions in place regarding pitch counts and readiness for each player’s upcoming MLB season. “There are guardrails for the tournament,” he explained. Skenes expressed his commitment to pitch further in the tournament if Team USA advances. “If we win, I’ll pitch again,” he stated. Meanwhile, Skubal plans to make only one appearance in the World Baseball Classic.
Upcoming Matches
The tournament kicks off for Team USA on Friday at 8 p.m. ET, in Houston, where they will face Brazil in their opening pool match. Team USA hopes to capitalize on its talented roster as it aims for success in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
