Team USA projected lineup, rotation for World Baseball Classic

After falling to Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, Team USA has assembled a roster loaded with MLB stars for the next iteration of the tournament.

While Team USA’s roster was strong in 2022, the pitching staff had some issues. In 2026, though, Team USA and manager Mark DeRosa were able to convince top-end pitching talent to join the roster, despite the tournament being held before the regular season and likely requiring a quicker ramp-up process.

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Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber, New York Yankees first baseman Paul Goldschmidt and Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith are the lone position players returning from the 2023 squad. They’ll be joined by some of the world’s best, including Aaron Judge, Bryce Harper and Cal Raleigh, among others.

Team USA is the favorite for the WBC, but it won’t be easy, as Japan, the Dominican Republic and Venezuela are also top contenders.

Here’s a look at USA’s projected lineup for the WBC, which will be held from March 5-17:

Team USA projected lineup for World Baseball Classic

Team USA is only carrying four outfielders for the WBC, which includes Judge, who’s expected to play every game. Corbin Carroll was recently replaced by former No. 1 prospect Roman Anthony, one of the best young talents in MLB.

The infield could also get interesting, as Team USA boasts both Gunnar Henderson and Witt Jr. at shortstop. Witt Jr. likely has the leg up as a returner from the 2023 squad, but Henderson should still see his fair share of playing time at his natural position.

Team USA will likely rotate its position players group throughout the group stage, thanks to having a deep roster of MLB stars. The lineup could, and likely will, also change based on if it’s facing a right-handed or left-handed pitcher. Byron Buxton could also take designated hitter when Team USA faces left-handed pitchers, with Schwarber taking duties against right-handers.

Here’s a look at Team USA’s projected lineup when playing its best nine players:

8. CF Pete Crow-Armstrong (L)

• Bench: Byron Buxton (R), Paul Goldschmidt (R), Ernie Clement (R), Will Smith (R)

Team USA projected pitching rotation

Team USA’s rotation is led by the two reigning Cy Young winners in Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes. However, Skubal said he’ll only make one start, which will come during the group. Skenes said he expects to make two starts/

Team USA has solid starting pitch depth, especially with top prospect Nolan McLean capable of shifting from the bullpen to the rotation once Skubal is done. Logan Webb is also capable of leading a rotation.

Joe Ryan was projected to be in the rotation, although he was scratched from his first Spring Training start on Feb. 20 due to lower-back tightness, and was eventually placed by Yankees LHP Ryan Yarbrough.

Here’s a look at Team USA’s projected starting pitching rotation:

5. Michael Wacha (R) /Matthew Boyd (L)

• Other starters on roster: Clayton Kershaw (L), Nolan McLean (R), Clay Holmes (R)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Team USA projected lineup, rotation for World Baseball Classic