Paul Skenes Discusses Role on USA's 2026 WBC Roster Ahead of MLB Season with Pirates

Pittsburgh Pirates star pitcher Paul Skenes plans on starting multiple games for the United States in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

He told Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic he expects to start two games if the Americans advance out of pool play.

"We win, we go as far as we should, I'll pitch again in the tournament," the right-hander, who will also take the ball in one of the team's exhibition games ahead of the tournament, said.

That stands in contrast to Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, who told reporters he will make just one start in the WBC.

"I'm trying to do both things, trying to pitch for Team USA but I understand the need to be here with these guys and get ready for the season," Skubal said. "I think it's kind of the best of both worlds in that aspect, and I'm grateful they took me in that capacity."

Skenes being available for multiple games is welcome news for the Americans considering he is one of the best pitchers in the entire sport.

He is just 23 years old with two seasons of Major League Baseball under his belt but already has a resume that includes a National League Cy Young, a NL Rookie of the Year, two All-Star selections and an ERA Title.

Skenes has a 1.96 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 386 strikeouts in 320.2 innings through the first two years of his career and will look to add a WBC title to his list of accomplishments.

The United States will face Brazil in its first WBC game on March 6 at Daikin Park in Houston.