It is never too early to forecast Team USA’s roster for the March 2026 World Baseball Classic. With New York Yankees superstar Aaron Judge leading the charge as team captain, expect other top Americans to follow suit.
One deserving player is Boston Red Sox ace Garrett Crochet, who has seemingly done everything to warrant a roster spot.
Here is what Crochet told Rob Bradford of WEEI on his WBC outlook:
The 25-year-old is already living up to his six-year, $170 million contract with the Red Sox. He has a 1.95 ERA, a 2.24 FIP, and 44 strikeouts to 15 walks over his first 37 innings in Boston. Crochet earned his first all-star nod last summer and is well-positioned to make many more.
His electrifying four-seamer, sinker, cutter combination have devastated batters for years and he would be a welcome addition to Team USA.
Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Garrett Crochet (35) pitches against the Seattle Mariners during the first inning at Fenway Park.
Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
The only reason Crochet would not receive an invitation is due to injuries. He underwent Tommy John surgery in April of 2022 when he was still a member of the Chicago White Sox. He missed the entire season and a majority of the 2023 campaign.
While it does not appear to be a lingering issue, Crochet could still benefit from extra rest and not ramping himself up too early. The WBC is a tremendous honor and incredible achievement, but would Crochet, and more importantly, the Red Sox, be willing to risk anything with extra innings?
That is a discussion for a later date, and hinges on Crochet staying healthy this summer. But expect him to be included on Team USA when the roster is announced.
