Team USA isn’t waiting around this time. After coming up just short in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, losing to Samurai Japan in a title game thriller, the Stars and Stripes are already loading the roster for redemption — and they’re starting with some serious firepower.
Judge and Skenes: Statement Signings
Aaron Judge, the face of the New York Yankees and one of the most feared hitters in the sport, was among the first to commit. His announcement that he’ll represent Team USA in 2026 was big news, a tone-setter that sent a clear message.
But now comes the latest hammer — Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ ace and one of baseball’s brightest young stars, has officially committed to join Judge in red, white, and blue. He isn’t just any pitcher right now. This guy went from college powerhouse to MLB phenomenon in the blink of an eye.
From Cadet to Center Stage
Skenes’ journey is something out of a movie script. He started at the Air Force Academy, then transferred to LSU, where he promptly helped deliver a College World Series title. He was taken No. 1 overall in the 2023 draft. Since making his debut in May of 2024, he’s been as advertised — and maybe more.
Last season, he showed up big time. He earned Rookie of the Year, finished third in the NL Cy Young race, and started the All-Star Game. That’s a rare trifecta, and the scary part? He’s just getting warmed up.
In 2025, despite pitching for a disappointing Pirates squad, Skenes holds a 2.63 ERA. The win-loss record (3-4) might not sparkle, but make no mistake — the stuff, the command, the poise are all elite.
A Reloaded Team USA Ready for a Run
Team USA is gearing up to make a run at the title in 2026, and the early commits tell you everything you need to know. This won’t be a team cobbled together in January.
This is going to be a roster built with intention—top-tier talent, front to back. Judge is anchoring the lineup, Skenes is leading the staff, and more big names are expected to join in the coming months.
Manager Mark DeRosa is back for a second go-around; this time, he’s starting with a head start. The core is forming early, the message is clear, and the goal is singular: win it all.
Japan may be the reigning champs, but with the firepower Team USA is assembling — and with names like Skenes stepping up — the next World Baseball Classic is already shaping up to be must-watch.
