Americans can secure just one slot in the World Baseball Classic from any single Cy Young Award winner, but it’s possible to grab spots from different players.
Paul Skeens shared with MLB Insider Ken Rosenthal that he anticipates starting at least one game in the pool phase for Team USA, and maybe another if the team goes further in the tournament.
“We won. We did what we needed to do. We’re going to pitch again in the tournament,” Skeens remarked.
The decision made by the 2025 National League Cy Young Award winner contrasts with that of Tarik Skubal. He expressed plans to pitch once, facing the UK on March 7, before heading back to spring training with the Tigers.
“I want to do both—pitch for Team USA and train here,” Skubal explained. “But I understand the importance of preparing for the season with the team. It’s kind of the best of both worlds, really. I appreciate that they found a place for me.”
Skubal, a two-time American League Cy Young Award winner, hopes to return and watch if Team USA makes it to the final round.
Giants ace Logan Webb said on Tuesday that he intends to stay engaged during the WBC, participating throughout while expressing understanding for Skubal’s decision to limit his involvement. “I can’t really speak for him,” Webb commented. “He’s in a different situation being a free agent soon. I get why he’s doing it.”
With Skeens on board, Team USA is gaining one of the top right-handers in the game. Last season, he recorded a WHIP of 0.948—the best in the National League—and led MLB with an ERA of 1.97 and a FIP of 2.36.
Alongside an impressive roster, the Americans will also see appearances from retired Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw, marking what’s likely to be his final stint on the mound.
The coaching team will incorporate talent from New York, featuring Mets starting pitchers Clay Holmes and Nolan McLean, along with Yankees relief pitcher David Bednar.
Team USA is set to play exhibition games against the Giants and Rockies next week, kicking off their pool play against Brazil on March 6 at Daikin Park in Houston.
