Canada is preparing for the World Baseball Classic (WBC) by announcing its starting pitchers for the initial matches. The tournament will take place from March 5 to March 17, with games held in Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo.
Canada’s Pitching Updates for the WBC
Michael Soroka is set to be Canada’s starting pitcher for the opening game against Colombia on Saturday. Following him, Jameson Taillon will take the mound on Sunday in the matchup against Panama.
Pitching Rotation Details
- Game 1: Michael Soroka vs. Colombia
- Game 2: Jameson Taillon vs. Panama
Player Profiles
Michael Soroka, a right-hander from Calgary, recently signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks. At 28 years old, he has endured challenges, missing the 2021 and 2022 seasons due to multiple torn Achilles tendon injuries. In the 2025 season, Soroka recorded a 4.52 ERA and achieved 95 strikeouts over 22 starts with the Washington Nationals and the Chicago Cubs.
Jameson Taillon, a 34-year-old right-hander, is gearing up for his 10th MLB season, his fourth with the Chicago Cubs. Born in Florida to Canadian parents, Taillon had a solid performance last season, finishing with a 3.68 ERA and 98 strikeouts across 23 starts.
Pre-Tournament Games
Canada will kick off its pre-tournament schedule with two practice games this week. The pitching roster includes:
- Against the Blue Jays (Tuesday): Logan Allen, Noah Skirrow, Adam Macko, Indigo Diaz, Antoine Jean, Brock Dykxhoorn, Eric Cerantola.
- Against the Phillies (Wednesday): Cal Quantrill, Jordan Balazovic, Matt Wilkinson, James Paxton, Micah Ashman, Phillippe Aumont, Rob Zastryzny.
Fans can catch all WBC games on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ as the event unfolds.
