Team USA is gearing up for the World Baseball Classic with a lineup that’s nothing short of spectacular—a rotation so star-studded it’s already sparking conversations about whether this could be their year to reclaim the title. But here’s where it gets controversial: with a trio of pitchers boasting three Cy Young Awards and six All-Star nods between them, is this the most dominant starting rotation Team USA has ever assembled? And can they finally break the drought and win the WBC for the first time since 2017?**
McLean, the Mets’ right-hander, is penciled in to face Italy on March 10 (https://www.mlb.com/gameday/italy-vs-united-states/2026/03/10/788119), though he was notably absent from Team USA’s first workout at the Giants’ player development center in Papago Park on Monday due to illness. According to DeRosa, McLean is still at the Mets’ camp in Port St. Lucie, Florida, and his condition will be reevaluated daily. ‘He’s been a little under the weather down there,’ DeRosa explained. ‘We’ll reassess day to day.’
The real firepower, however, lies in the trio of Skubal, Skenes, and Webb. These three aren’t just pitchers—they’re game-changers. ‘They change the game for us, no question,’ DeRosa said. ‘This isn’t about disrespecting anyone else. It’s about having guys who are all-in. If someone needs their schedule meticulously laid out, this tournament isn’t for them.’ And this is the part most people miss: assembling this team wasn’t just about talent—it was about commitment. DeRosa shared that while Skenes was an easy recruit, Skubal required a more patient approach, with check-ins every two months and even involvement from pitching coach Andy Pettitte. As for Webb, DeRosa had tried to recruit him as early as 2023, but a contract extension delayed his participation.
Skubal, an impending free agent (https://www.mlb.com/news/tarik-skubal-wins-arbitration-case), will only make one start in pool play before returning to Tigers camp. But Skenes and Webb are committed to staying for the entire tournament, determined to help Team USA bring home the trophy. Here’s the bold question: Is Skubal’s single-game commitment enough, or should players prioritize the tournament over personal risks? Team USA captain Aaron Judge weighed in, praising Skubal’s willingness to play in a contract year. ‘For him to put it all on the line for his country—even if it’s just one game—it means a lot,’ Judge said. ‘The guys in the clubhouse were hyped. Maybe we can squeeze another game out of him. We’ll see.’
Skenes will get his final tune-up on Tuesday in an exhibition game against the Giants at Scottsdale Stadium, where he’ll be joined by Matthew Boyd, Gabe Speier, David Bednar, Griffin Jax, and Mason Miller. Get your 2026 Spring Training tickets now! (https://www.mlb.com/tickets/spring-training?affiliateId=mlbcomarticle-inline-linkmlb)
Controversial thought to end on: With such a stacked rotation, is Team USA’s biggest challenge now managing egos and expectations? Or is this the perfect storm of talent and teamwork? Let us know what you think in the comments—are you Team Skubal, Skenes, or Webb? Or do you think McLean’s absence could shake things up? The debate is open!
