The World Baseball Classic is one of the most highly anticipated events in the world of baseball. It brings together the best players from different countries to compete for the ultimate title of world champion. And with the 2026 World Baseball Classic just around the corner, fans are already buzzing with excitement and anticipation.
One of the most talked about topics leading up to the tournament is the starting lineup for Team USA. With a talented pool of players to choose from, it’s no easy task to predict who will make the cut. But let’s take a look at some of the top contenders and make our predictions for the starting lineup for Team USA at the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Starting with the pitching rotation, it’s safe to say that Max Scherzer will be leading the way for Team USA. The three-time Cy Young Award winner has proven time and time again that he is one of the best pitchers in the game. His experience and dominance on the mound make him a no-brainer for the starting spot. Joining him in the rotation will be Gerrit Cole, who has established himself as one of the top pitchers in the league with his impressive strikeout numbers and consistent performances. And rounding out the rotation will be Jacob deGrom, who has been a force to be reckoned with for the New York Mets and will bring his A-game to the international stage.
Moving on to the bullpen, we can expect to see some familiar faces like Aroldis Chapman and Josh Hader. Both of these left-handed pitchers have been dominant closers for their respective teams and will bring their fiery fastballs to shut down opponents in the late innings. Joining them will be Liam Hendriks, who has been a reliable closer for the Chicago White Sox and will bring his experience and leadership to the team.
Now let’s take a look at the infield. At first base, we have the reigning American League MVP, Freddie Freeman. The Atlanta Braves’ first baseman has been a consistent performer and will bring his power and defensive skills to the team. At second base, we have DJ LeMahieu, who has proven to be a valuable asset for the New York Yankees with his versatility and clutch hitting. And at shortstop, we have Trevor Story, who has been a standout player for the Colorado Rockies and will bring his speed and defensive prowess to the team.
Moving on to the hot corner, we have Nolan Arenado, who is widely considered one of the best third basemen in the game. His offensive and defensive abilities make him a valuable addition to the team. And behind the plate, we have J.T. Realmuto, who has established himself as one of the top catchers in the league with his strong arm and ability to handle a pitching staff.
In the outfield, we have a mix of speed, power, and defensive skills. Mike Trout, widely regarded as the best player in baseball, will be holding down center field with his incredible all-around abilities. Joining him will be Mookie Betts, who has been a consistent performer for the Los Angeles Dodgers and will bring his speed and power to the team. And in left field, we have Juan Soto, who has quickly become one of the most exciting young players in the game with his impressive hitting and strong arm.
As for the designated hitter spot, we have to give it to the veteran slugger, Nelson Cruz. The 41-year-old has been a consistent power hitter for the Minnesota Twins and will bring his experience and leadership to the team.
Of course, these are just predictions and there are many other talented players who could make a case for a spot on the starting lineup. But one thing is for sure, Team USA will have a stacked roster with a perfect blend of experience and youth, power and speed, and offensive and defensive skills.
The 2026 World Baseball Classic is still a few years away, but the excitement and anticipation are already building. With a talented and well-rounded starting lineup, Team USA will be a force to be reckoned with and will have their sights set on bringing home the championship title. So let’s gear up and get ready to cheer on our team as they take on the best in the world and bring glory to our nation. Go Team USA!
