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Aaron Judge, the renowned Major League Baseball (MLB) player, announced on Monday (April 14) that he will play for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Judge will serve as the team captain, bringing a superstar presence to the roster. His participation is expected to encourage other elite American players to join the team.
Judge's announcement follows a similar pattern seen in 2023 when Mike Trout's involvement inspired other American All-Stars to participate. With Judge on board, the focus now shifts to assembling a formidable American baseball "Dream Team." According to The New York Times, the roster could include a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents, with a potential lineup featuring stars like Bryce Harper, Mookie Betts, and Bobby Witt Jr.
The selection of pitchers remains uncertain, as top American starting pitchers have historically been less inclined to participate in the World Baseball Classic. However, the deep pool of American talent offers numerous possibilities for a competitive team. The 2026 World Baseball Classic will provide an opportunity for Judge and his teammates to showcase their skills on an international stage, aiming for victory.