One of the best events for all MLB fans and players is the World Baseball Classic, an opportunity for each player to represent their home country in a highly competitive event. We last saw the WBC in spring 2023 when Japan defeated the United States in the championship game. The next WBC will be in March 2026, and one MLB superstar hopes to participate.
Mike Trout ‘Plans’ To Play in 2026 WBC
As the 2023 USA team captain, Mike Trout hopes to return to Team USA for the 2026 WBC. According to Jon Morosi, Trout said, “I had a blast doing it [in 2023], and I plan to do it again. … If they ask, I’m there.”
Mike Trout, having a productive spring with the Angels, told @Boomskie regarding the 2026 @WBCBaseball:
“I had a blast doing it [in 2023], and I plan to do it again . . . If they ask, I’m there.”
Full story:https://t.co/10ffotgdeR@MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) March 9, 2025
Trout is one of the top players in the sport but has seen his career derailed over the past few seasons due to injury. He has not played over 120 games since the 2019 season. His production is undeniable, but his inability to stay on the field is an issue.
To try and keep Trout (33) healthy, the Angels are moving him to right field this season. They hope that will limit the wear and tear from playing centerfield.
If Trout has another season of injuries this year, the Angels may suggest he sits out the WBC next spring. If he wants to compete in that event, a healthy season would be crucial to show his body is not breaking down.
Team USA Seeking Revenge
The 2023 WBC was one for the ages, as we saw many classic games and head-to-head matchups. The most memorable was the final out of the championship game when Shohei Ohtani was on the mound and Trout was at the plate. Ohtani struck out Trout to clinch the gold for Japan.
Trout and Company will be ready for revenge in 2026 as they go for the gold. It will be interesting to see which other players will join the team.
USA has a chance to have an MVP-filled roster with Trout, Aaron Judge, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman. Also, they could have a pitching staff that features Paul Skenes, Zach Wheeler, Tarik Skubal, and Corbin Burnes.
If all the best American players commit to playing in the WBC, they will undoubtedly have the best roster. The other top competitors will be Japan and the Dominican Republic, both of which will have star-studded rosters.
