Star Red Sox reliever Garrett Whitlock is the latest player who will be joining Team USA in the World Baseball Classic in March, he announced via Instagram on Saturday.
Through 62 appearances in relief this past season, Whitlock posted a 7-3 record with a 2.25 ERA and 91 strikeouts through 72 innings pitched while primarily serving as Boston’s setup man for closer Aroldis Chapman.
Whitlock has spent the entirety of his five-year MLB tenure with the Red Sox, holding a career 3.13 ERA through 165 appearances.
Garrett Whitlock pitches during the seventh inning of the Red Sox’s Game 2 loss to the Yankees on Oct. 1, 2025 at the Stadium. Getty Images
The 29-year-old was initially drafted by the Yankees in the 18th round of the 2017 MLB Draft before Boston later selected him during the 2020 Rule 5 draft.
Whitlock now joins a growing roster of stars who will represent the United States.
So far, the list includes Aaron Judge — who was named Team USA captain in April — and 2025 NL Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes, as well as Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll and Cubs centerfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong.
Team USA manager Mark DeRosa praised the the squad as he welcomed Carroll and Crow-Armstrong to the team during the MLB Awards earlier this month.
Garrett Whitlock pitches during a regular-season game against the Rangers. Getty Images
“We need some energy, some youth infused,” DeRosa said. “We’re going to have the big captain, the AL MVP, standing in right field. But I think we need some young guns to go get it, to hit some homers.”
DeRosa then invited the two young outfielders on stage and handed Team USA jerseys.
“You knew I would eventually be calling,” DeRosa said to Crow-Armstrong. “So you came up to me during the Home Run Derby, and what did you say?”
“I said, ‘Whenever you call, you know my answer is yes,’” Crow-Armstrong said. “I love playing for my country more than anything. Getting to play for you, getting to play with Cal, Corbs, Mr. Judge; it’s going to be great.”