What are Yankees' expectations, possibilities as the WBC begins?

Before leaving for his third World Baseball Classic, Paul Goldschmidt offered a simple, personal reason for participating.

“It’s maybe the most fun I’ve ever had playing baseball.’’

And maybe there’ll be a magic moment for the veteran Yankees’ first baseman, in the twilight of a fine career, on a talent-loaded Team USA – favored to win the gold.

As play begins, there are 13 Yankees are scattered about WBC rosters, the largest pinstriped collection since the tournament began in 2006.

Austin Wells: Faster start? Feb 13, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees catcher Austin Wells (28) works out during spring training practices at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Feb 13, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees catcher Austin Wells (28) works out during spring training practices at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Perhaps the WBC can be a launch pad for Wells.

Offensively last year, Wells got off to a slow start and didn’t build on 2024, his first full MLB season.

At the plate, “I expect a lot more out of him. As does he,’’ Yankees manager Aaron Boone said recently, referencing Wells’ .219 average and .712 OPS in 126 games.

Playing in his first WBC, Wells is catching for Team Dominican Republic, honoring his mother’s heritage.

And as Goldschmidt said recently, WBC play “can help you prepare for the regular season,’’ by facing better competition in a playoff-type setting – a different ramp-up than the exhibition schedule.

“You can’t simulate these really meaningful (WBC) games,’’ said Goldschmidt. “I think that’s beneficial.’’

Elmer Rodriguez: Breakout star? Mar 3, 2026; Lee County, FL, USA; Puerto Rico pitcher Elmer Rodriguez (18) pitches in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

Mar 3, 2026; Lee County, FL, USA; Puerto Rico pitcher Elmer Rodriguez (18) pitches in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

Rodriguez and fellow right-hander Carlos Lagrange are the most exciting pitching prospects in Yankees camp.

Now, Rodriguez has an opportunity to showcase his talent for Team Puerto Rico, in what MLB.com called the tournament’s most balanced of the four WBC pools.

Rodriguez is scheduled to start Puerto Rico’s second game of pool play, against Panama (with Yankees infielder Jose Caballero on the roster).

Canada, Cuba and Colombia are also in Pool A.

In the WBC leadup, Rodriguez tossed three scoreless innings Tuesday against his old organization; last year, the Yanks sent catcher Carlos Narvaez to the Boston Red Sox for E-Rod.

With a four-pitch arsenal, led by his fastball and slider, Rodriguez – who reached Triple-A by the end of last year – could impact the Yankees’ pitching staff at some point in 2026.

Jazz Chisholm Jr.: World stage advantage? Feb 16, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees infielder infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. (13) fields a ground ball during spring training at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

Feb 16, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees infielder infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. (13) fields a ground ball during spring training at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

Yes, this looks like a brief WBC stay for the Yankees’ second baseman.

Chisholm is one of six players from the Bahamas on Team Great Britain, residing in Pool B with Team USA and Team Mexico.

The lefty-hitting Chisholm is Great Britain’s greatest player by far. And despite the tough draw, he’ll get a personal chance to display his talent and plus-personality before entering a key 2026 season.

This is Chisholm’s free agent walk year, and he’s already discussed following up his 30-homer, 30-steal season with a 50-50 campaign – with a substantial payday to follow.

If he stays healthy for the full season, anything’s possible. However it shakes out, Chisholm’s important year begins here.

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