Bryce Harper is the latest megastar to join Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Team USA now has its first baseman: Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper announced his commitment to play in the World Baseball Classic on Tuesday.
“I first put the colors on my chest when I was 15. There was no other feeling like it,” Harper posted on Instagram. “I’m excited to announce that this year I will be representing Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. Merica! #forglory”
The team has already announced position players at all positions, and Harper is joined in the infield by Bobby Witt Jr., Gunnar Henderson and Brice Turang. Other players include Phillies teammate and designated hitter Kyle Schwaber; outfielders Aaron Judge (captain); Corbin Carroll and Pete Crow-Armstrong; and receivers Cal Raleigh and Will Smith.
The pitching staff includes starters Tarik Skubal, Paul Skenes, Matthew Boyd, Joe Ryan, Logan Webb, Clay Holmes and Nolan McLean. Relievers David Bednar, Mason Miller and Garrett Whitlock have also committed to Team USA.
Harper missed a month of the season while recovering from a wrist injury, but still managed to hit 27 home runs and 75 RBIs. His .844 OPS last season was the lowest since 2016 and his .261 batting average was the worst since 2019.
The World Baseball Classic will be played from March 5 to 17. Games will be played in Houston, Miami, Tokyo and San Juan, Puerto Rico, with the semifinals and championship game in Miami.
The United States will play alongside Great Britain, Brazil, Italy and Mexico in Group B of the first round from March 6-11 at Daikin Park in Houston.
The last time the American team won the World Baseball Classic was in 2017.
