Team USA has assembled a rotation that’s going to be tough to beat at the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
But when Tarik Skubal announced he’d make just one start before heading back to Detroit, fans weren’t exactly thrilled. The reigning AL Cy Young winner limiting himself to a single outing? That raised some eyebrows.
Paul Skenes, who’s likely slotting in as the No. 2 starter behind Skubal, will make two starts for Team USA. The Pirates ace joins a rotation that could also feature Matthew Boyd, Nolan McLean, Joe Ryan, and Logan Webb.
So why the limited workload for two of baseball’s best arms?
Logan Webb has an answer for the critics.
The Giants right-hander joined “Foul Territory” with Erik Kratz on Friday to discuss the upcoming WBC, and he’s tired of hearing complaints about the rotation plan.
“I feel like I got slack for that, too. I don’t think they understand it’s only seven games. If I throw two, Paul throws two, and Skubal throws one… those are studs throwing those other games.”
Webb’s got a point. The math is pretty straightforward when you break it down.
Team USA plays a maximum of seven games if they reach the championship. With Webb and Skenes each taking two starts and Skubal handling one, that leaves four games for the rest of what might be the deepest rotation in WBC history.
The Americans are bringing considerably more firepower this time around compared to 2023. The roster features a combined six Cy Young Awards, including three from future Hall of Famer Clayton Kershaw.
Manager Mark DeRosa isn’t just loaded with starting pitching either. The bullpen reads like an All-Star roster.
Three relievers stand out in particular: Mason Miller from Oakland, David Bednar from Pittsburgh, and Garrett Whitlock from Boston. Each brings elite stuff and proven results at the highest level.
What makes this different from previous tournaments is the depth. Even with their top starters on pitch counts, the Americans can roll out quality arms for every single game.
That’s the luxury of having this much talent. You don’t need to overwork anyone when the guy behind him can get the job done just as well.
https://x.com/foulterritorytv/status/2027481364350570666?s=46
