The 2026 World Baseball Classic is marred by significant insurance issues affecting star players, particularly Puerto Rico’s Francisco Lindor and Carlos Correa. Both have been denied coverage due to injury histories, prompting outrage among fans and the Puerto Rican Baseball Federation, which has threatened to withdraw the team from the tournament. However, it’s unlikely they will follow through due to potential sanctions from the WBSC. Ongoing negotiations between MLB officials and the insurance company may change some of these decisions, but many major players remain uninsured.
By the Numbers9 of the top 10 MLB players by recent rankings are expected to participate in the WBC.Certain players like Lindor, with contracts totaling $204.6 million, face tougher insurance approval compared to lower-paid players. State of PlayLindor and Correa’s absences have left Puerto Rico’s roster significantly weakened.MLB and the Players Association are negotiating with insurance companies regarding player coverage. What’s Next
If negotiations do not yield favorable results, it could lead to further withdrawals of star players from the tournament and a notable impact on team competitiveness, particularly for Puerto Rico.
Bottom Line
The absence of key talent like Lindor from the WBC highlights the challenges players face with insurance policies that limit participation, casting a shadow over the tournament as its popularity continues to rise.