That time of the year is here yet again! The World Baseball Classic has begun, with players from many countries coming together to compete, similar to the World Cup.
The World Baseball Classic (WBC) is a 20-team tournament divided into two main stages, with a round-robin Pool Play, followed by a single-elimination knockout stage, with teams being split into four pools of five teams each.
Previously, Team Japan, led by Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, defeated Team USA in 2023.
In previous years, Team USA defeated Puerto Rico in 2017 at Dodger Stadium.
The tournament has grown in popularity over the years, as more and more fans from around the world watch their players compete and represent their countries.
Why do so many people care for an “exhibition game”? Well, the World Baseball Classic resembles the pride and passion these players have for their country, since it gives players the ability to represent an entire body of people.
For most players, it isn’t about the game, but rather a chance for them to play for something bigger than themselves.
So far, in 2026, the reigning champion, Japan, after dominating in pool play, has been eliminated from the tournament in the semi-finals, with Shohei Ohtani recording the final out.
Team USA, led by Yankees Captain Aaron Judge, has advanced to the WBC finals after winning a close game against the Dominican Republic.
However, it wouldn’t be a sports tournament without drama looming over everyone’s heads.
Cy-Young winner (the award given to the best pitcher in the league), Tarik Skubal of Team USA, has quite the controversy surrounding him after disputes over his ability to play further in the tournament.
Usually, teams and their agents set a “limit” on how long players can participate, typically for injury prevention or future contract negotiations.
For example, if Skubal got injured and didn’t do too hot, other teams could argue that he’s worth less than originally expected, due to the injury.
This would essentially hurt his chances of receiving a mega contract in Free Agency.
The uncertainty is what makes the situation so interesting.
Skubal originally stated he was planning to make one start for Team USA and head back to the Detroit Tigers.
But after throwing three innings against Great Britain, he admitted to ESPN that it “would be hard to walk away from the tournament completely.”
Skubal's situation is a direct example of why the WBC keeps growing every time it comes around.
The tournament isn’t about wins or losses, but rather pride and loyalty. Players want to represent their country, yet they have to balance their professional responsibilities for the MLB season.
As the tournament progresses, the intensity only rises; every game matters more, every roster decision becomes equally as important, and every country is chasing the same goal.
That pressure, mixed with the passion of international fans from across the globe, is what makes the World Baseball Classic one of the most exciting events in sports.
