Paul Skenes Becomes Second Player to Commit to Team USA for 2026 World Baseball Classic

The Pittsburgh Pirates’ star pitcher will represent the United States at the 2026 WBC in March.
Paul Skenes Becomes Second Player to Commit to Team USA for 2026 World Baseball Classic
Paul Skenes #30 of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches during the second inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field in New York City on May 12, 2025. Jim McIsaac/Getty Images
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Just two members of Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic have been announced but they are arguably the biggest stars at their respective positions. A month after Aaron Judge was named captain of the United States, he was joined on the team by reigning NL Rookie of the Year, Paul Skenes, on Tuesday.

He made the announcement on MLB Network where he revealed that it’s something he’s always thought about but wasn’t sure if the chance would ever arise.

Ross Kelly
Ross Kelly
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Ross Kelly is a sports journalist who has been published by ESPN, CBS and USA Today. He has also done statistical research for Stats Inc. and Synergy Sports Technology. A graduate of LSU, Ross resides in Houston.