Two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal is set to represent Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC). However, his participation will be limited to just one start during the tournament.
Skubal’s Recent Performance and Contract
The 29-year-old pitcher shared details about his WBC involvement after his first spring training appearance for the Detroit Tigers in 2026. Skubal is coming off remarkable seasons, with a 2.21 ERA and 241 strikeouts in 195.1 innings pitched in 2025. He achieved back-to-back American League Cy Young awards, solidifying his reputation as one of the leading pitchers in Major League Baseball.
Hailing from Hayward, California, Skubal is entering the final year of team control with the Tigers. Earlier this month, he secured a record $32 million contract for the 2026 season through arbitration.
Upcoming Schedule for Team USA
Team USA will compete at the WBC, running from March 5 to March 17, with matches in Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo. The squad is excited to have talents like Skubal and Paul Skenes, breaking the trend of top starters hesitant to commit to the tournament.
Pool B Play Details
In the preliminary rounds, Team USA will host games at Daikin Park in Houston. They share Pool B with Brazil, Great Britain, Italy, and Mexico. The top two teams will advance to the quarterfinals.
- Start Date: March 5, 2026
- End Date: March 17, 2026
- Pool B Opponents:
- Brazil
- Great Britain
- Italy
- Mexico
- First Match: March 6, 2026
Skubal expressed a strong desire to continue with Team USA if they advance to the finals in Miami. Fans can catch thrilling WBC action on El-Balad and other sports networks.
