Corbin Carroll, the Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder, will miss the World Baseball Classic due to a broken hamate bone in his right hand. To fill this key vacancy, Team USA is expected to add Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony as Carroll’s replacement. This substitution is contingent upon Anthony passing a spring training physical scheduled for Saturday, February 14.
Physical Clearance Crucial for Anthony’s Participation
According to Tim Healey of the Boston Globe and a league source, 21-year-old Roman Anthony’s inclusion in Team USA hinges on clearing a spring training health check. Anthony’s recent history includes a left oblique strain sustained late in the 2025 season, which must be fully healed before he can join the roster for the international tournament.
Roman Anthony’s ascent is about to reach its biggest stage yet. The Red Sox wunderkind will play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, a league source said, as long as he passes his routine start-of-camp physical on Saturday as expected.
Anthony to Step into Starting Role after Carroll’s Setback
Before his injury, Carroll was projected as Team USA’s starting right fielder. With Carroll sidelined, Anthony—now entering only his second MLB season—could assume a significant role in the World Baseball Classic lineup. His strong rookie showing with the Red Sox has positioned him as a promising candidate for the opportunity.
Anthony Expresses Gratitude and Reflection on Opportunity
Roman Anthony conveyed mixed emotions about the call-up, combining excitement for his chance to represent the USA with sympathy for Carroll’s misfortune. He described the potential experience as both an honor and a valuable learning opportunity.
So if it all goes well, the goal for me is to play,
Anthony said.
It’d be an honor, for sure. It was something I’m super excited about, and when I got news of it, obviously super sad for [Carroll]. You don’t want to see that ever. But it would be a great opportunity and a great learning lesson for me, to go be around a bunch of the best players in the game.
Early Success Highlights Anthony’s MLB Career
In his rookie campaign with the Boston Red Sox, Anthony distinguished himself as one of the league’s top newcomers. Finishing third in the AL Rookie of the Year voting, he compiled a .292 batting average and a .396 on-base percentage over 257 at-bats. His totals included 75 hits, eight home runs, and 32 RBIs, underscoring his rising potential ahead of the classic.
Implications for Team USA and the World Baseball Classic
Roman Anthony’s expected addition brings youthful promise to Team USA amid its adjustments following Carroll’s injury. Should Anthony successfully pass his physical and join the squad, his performance could influence the team’s depth and outfield options in the tournament. This roster change highlights the challenges teams face managing player health ahead of major international events.
