Team USA is ramping up for the highly anticipated 2026 World Baseball Classic with an exciting exhibition finale scheduled for Wednesday in Arizona. Fans will have the opportunity to watch a lineup featuring power players such as Aaron Judge, Bryce Harper, and Kyle Schwarber as they face off against the Colorado Rockies.
The Americans kicked off their exhibition series in impressive fashion, dominating the San Francisco Giants with a 15-1 victory. This strong performance sets a positive tone heading into the WBC, where Team USA will begin its campaign against Brazil this Friday in Houston.
The Rockies, in contrast, will present a lineup led by Jake McCarthy, Adael Amador, and Mickey Moniak. Team USA’s star players made a significant impact in their last outing, as Judge and Harper each contributed to the scoreboard alongside Cal Raleigh, Roman Anthony, and Gunnar Henderson, with multiple runs batted in.
Paul Skenes had an impressive start against the Giants, allowing only one hit and one run while striking out four batters over three innings. As the team prepares for the next match, there will be some adjustments to the lineup—Alex Bregman will move to second base, with Henderson stepping in at third. Will Smith will take over as catcher, replacing Raleigh, while Pete Crow-Armstrong will step in for Buxton in center field, and Ernie Clement will take Anthony’s spot in left field. The batting order will maintain its core, with Witt, Harper, Judge, and Schwarber leading off for the second consecutive game.
Additionally, veteran starter Ryan Yarbrough, who recently joined Team USA’s roster as an injury replacement for Joe Ryan, is set to take the mound on Thursday. Manager Mark DeRosa has confirmed that Logan Webb will start for the WBC opener against Brazil, while reigning Cy Young Award winners Tarik Skubal and Skenes are slated for subsequent starts against Britain and Mexico, respectively. Nolan McLean is also expected to start against Italy, although his status is currently uncertain due to an illness.
Team USA is building momentum and showcasing its depth in talent as the WBC approaches, leaving fans eager and hopeful for a successful tournament.