Team USA has its starting shortstop for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, with Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals announcing his commitment to the team.
Witt was a member of the Team USA roster that lost to Team Japan in the championship game of the previous WBC tournament in 2023. The former No. 2 overall pick was asked to join Team USA with only one season of Major League experience under his belt, a testament to how highly regarded he was as a young player.
Witt enjoyed a solid rookie season in 2022, batting .254/.294/.428 with 31 doubles, six triples, 20 home runs, 80 RBI and 30 stolen bases. However, he didn’t have a huge role during the 2023 WBC, mostly serving as a late-inning replacement for Nolan Arenado on defense or as a pinch-runner.
In three total plate appearances during the 2023 WBC, Witt had a walk, double and one RBI.
Armed with the knowledge and experience gained from being teammates with the best players the United States has to offer, Witt took a step forward in his second season with the Royals. He improved in nearly every category across the board, including a 114 wRC+ and accumulating 5.8 fWAR.
Witt then had a breakout season in 2024, playing a large role in the Royals’ surprise playoff run last year. The All-Star shortstop hit .332/.389/.588 with 45 doubles, 11 triples, 32 home runs, 109 RBI and 31 stolen bases. His wRC+ skyrocketed to 168, while also collecting 10.4 fWAR.
Witt finished second in 2024 American League MVP voting behind Aaron Judge.
He has been unable to totally replicate that elite-level production this year, but is still enjoying a quality season. The Royals have taken a step back as a team, sitting in third place in the AL Central. However, they remain very much in the hunt for a Wild Card spot.
Team USA’s 2026 World Baseball Classic roster
New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge was the first player to join Team USA for the 2026 WBC as its captain, announcing his decision on April 14.
Pittsburg Pirates ace Paul Skenes followed that up with an announcement of his own on May 13.
That leaves 27 spots left to be filled after Witt’s commitment. WBC rules dictate that rosters must include at least 14 pitchers and two catchers.
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