Bryce Harper committed to Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, announcing his decision Tuesday on Instagram. It’s the first WBC commitment of Harper’s career and fills what had been an open spot at first base.
The Phillies slugger’s addition comes just a week after Tarik Skubal joined the roster. Hard to top a back-to-back AL Cy Young winner, but Harper’s commitment comes pretty close in terms of star power.
Manager Mark DeRosa now has what looks like his starting nine for the opener against Taiwan. Here’s how it’s shaping up:
Likely Starting Lineup
Outfield:
- Corbin Carroll
- Pete Crow-Armstrong
- Aaron Judge
Infield:
- Gunnar Henderson – 3B
- Bobby Witt Jr. – SS
- Brice Turang – 2B
- Bryce Harper – 1B
Catcher/DH:
- Cal Raleigh – C
- Kyle Schwarber – DH
That’s a lineup that can match up with anyone. The potential showdowns with the Dominican Republic and Japan should produce some elite baseball.
Team USA’s roster keeps getting deeper, and they’re building what might be their strongest WBC team yet. Harper’s presence at first base gives them another proven postseason performer and a guy who’s been one of the game’s most consistent stars for over a decade.
The 2026 tournament is still over a year away, but rosters like this one are why it’s already generating buzz.
