Mariners' Cal Raleigh to Play for Team USA in 2026 World Baseball Classic

Cal Raleigh is set to play in his first All-Star Game this week, and the Seattle Mariners star announced Monday that he plans on participating in another iconic baseball event next year.

The catcher—who is competing in Monday's MLB Home Run Derby—revealed on MLB Network that he has committed to catching for Team USA at the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

The World Baseball Classic takes place in March of next year, and the United States is looking to redeem itself after coming up short in the championship game against Japan in 2023.

While Team USA's roster hasn't come together just yet, it's starting to take shape. New York Yankees star Aaron Judge, who did not compete in the WBC in 2023, has committed to play for the United States in 2026 and will serve as the team's captain.

Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes, who played at Air Force in college before transferring to LSU, has also committed to pitching for the United States.

"I've gotten the chance to wear USA across my chest a couple times, I've gotten to wear it in a couple different fashions, obviously in camo and obviously in a baseball uniform," Skenes said on MLB Network after announcing his commitment in May. "This is one thing, as a fan watching the previous World Baseball Classics, if I ever get the chance to do this, I'm never saying no."

Kansas City Royals star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who played in the World Baseball Classic after his rookie year in 2023, will also suit up for Team USA.

Raleigh is a huge addition for the United States because of his ability to both defend well and hit the ball well. Raleigh, who will compete in the Home Run Derby on Monday, leads the majors with 38 home runs and 82 RBI, well on his way to smashing his previous career highs.

Team USA will have some stiff competition with international stars playing for their respective teams, but the United States' roster got a lot better with Raleigh's commitment.