The Chicago Cubs will be well represented during the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC). MLB.com lists 13 players from the organization on WBC rosters, which are as followed:
Miguel Amaya (Panama)
Javier Assad (Mexico)
Christian Bethancourt (Panama)
Matthew Boyd (United States)
Alex Bregman (United States)
Pete Crow-Armstrong (United States)
Jonathon Long (Chinese Taipei)
BJ Murray (Great Britain)
Daniel Palencia (Venezuela)
Yacksel Ríos (Puerto Rico)
Erian Rodriguez (Panama)
Seiya Suzuki (Japan)
Jameson Taillon (Canada)
While several former members of the Cubs organization will be participating in the international event as well, Javier Baez will not be one of them.
Former Chicago Cubs star Javier Baez ineligible to play in 2026 World Baseball Classic
Mar 17, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; Puerto Rico second baseman Javier Baez (9) celebrates after a base hit during the eighth inning against Mexico at LoanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
As Cubs fans recall from Baez’s tenure with the team, he has a certain knack for delivering in clutch moments and on the biggest stage. His career in the WBC for Team Puerto Rico has been no different, but this year he won’t get the chance to represent his country due to being suspended throughout the tournaments duration.
Back in March of 2023, when the last WBC was, Baez tested positive for marijuana. As a result, he is ineligible to play in any World Baseball Federation games for two years, with the exact dates ranging from April 26, 2024, to April 26, 2026. Marijuana use is not banned by Major League Baseball, so no discipline from them is expected.
The suspension brings an unfortunate pause to what has otherwise been a strong international résumé for Báez, who has long been one of Puerto Rico’s leaders on the WBC stage. His absence leaves a noticeable void for a team that has relied on his energy, flair, and timely production in past tournaments, particularly in high-leverage games. For fans accustomed to seeing Báez shine under the brightest lights, this year’s WBC will feel different without him in the middle of Puerto Rico’s lineup.
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