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Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts revealed he won’t play for Team USA at the 2026 World Baseball Classic on internet personality Adin Ross’ livestream Wednesday.
Betts said he and his wife Brianna are expecting a baby at the same time as the tournament.
“I was, but I can’t now,” Betts said on the livestream. “My wife, we’re having a kid, so, the baby’s due in the middle of the WBC. She said she’d divorce me if I wasn’t there.”
Team USA currently has 15 players on their roster, six pitchers and nine position players, and the only position with two players assigned is shortstop. Betts participated in the 2023 WBC, the first of his career. He went 3-for-15 with two runs and an RBI in three games.
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Betts is a huge miss for Team USA, as the veteran would surely be able to play a huge role for the team throughout the tournament. The veteran had a rough start to the season, but caught fire in the second half — managing to bat above league average on the season despite a drastic dip in form towards the start of the year.
He slashed .258/.326/.406 in 2025, hitting 20 home runs and logging 82 RBIs. He also finished the season as a Gold Glove finalist at shortstop in his first full season playing the position.
Being one of the top teams in the world, Team USA received a favorable draw for pool play. They will play against Mexico, Italy, Great Britain and Brazil in Pool B, and should advance to the knockout round if they perform as they’re expected to.
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Team USA has won the WBC in 2017, and it still stands as their only championship in the tournament. They’ll look to become the second team to win the competition multiple times come March.
Photo Credit: Zachary BonDurant-USA TODAY Sports
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