As the San Francisco Giants aim for success in the 2026 season, their starting pitcher Logan Webb is also preparing to represent Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC). Addressing questions about the pitching rotation, Webb confirmed he will start two games for Team USA, responding specifically to the criticism surrounding Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal’s singular start in the tournament.
During an appearance on Foul Territory, Webb emphasized that the WBC only consists of seven games total, which shapes how pitchers are utilized. Although Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates will also make two starts, Skubal’s lone assignment sparked debate among fans and analysts, prompting Webb to defend the approach.
Webb Highlights the Unique Structure of the WBC and His Pitching Assignments
Webb pointed out the limited number of games as a crucial factor in managing the pitching staff.
“And I feel like I got slack for that too, but there’s only seven games, right?”
he said, emphasizing the brief nature of the competition. When pressed about the backlash aimed at Skubal, Webb reiterated,
“I don’t think they understand that it’s only seven games.”
He further added that his planned starts are confirmed, saying,
“I’m gonna see it through. I’ll let [Team USA manager] Mark DeRosa kind of tell people what I’m throwing, but I know what I’m throwing. I know I’ll be starting both of them.”
Webb’s remarks aimed to clear misconceptions about how starting roles are assigned within the compressed schedule of the WBC.
Focus on Tarik Skubal’s Single Start and His Perspective on Participation
While Webb is set for two starts, much attention has centered on Tarik Skubal’s limited use with Team USA. Skubal acknowledged this situation but indicated he might lobby for increased involvement if Team USA advances deep into the tournament. According to Cody Stavenhagen, Skubal said,
“If they go to the finals, I think I’m going to try and lobby to just go watch and be with the guys.”
He expressed a dual commitment, balancing pitching for Team USA while preparing for the upcoming MLB season.
“I’m trying to do both things, trying to pitch for Team USA, but I understand the need to be here with these guys and get ready for the season,”
Skubal shared.
“I think it’s kind of the best of both worlds in that aspect, and I’m grateful they took me in that capacity.”
Looking Ahead: Anticipation Builds Over How Team USA Will Manage Their Rotation
The official pitch schedule and rotation strategy remain to be seen as Team USA navigates through the WBC. Logan Webb’s clear stance on his role helps dispel some confusion among fans, while Skubal’s comments shed light on the balancing act players face between international competition and Major League Baseball seasons. How these plans unfold may impact Team USA’s performance and player availability as the WBC progresses toward its decisive stages.
"I don't think they understand it's only seven games."
Logan Webb confirms he's starting two games in the World Baseball Classic and tries to clear up some confusion among fans when it comes to starts. pic.twitter.com/R3A5qyl4M1
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) February 27, 2026
Tarik Skubal: "I'm trying to do both things, trying to pitch for Team USA but I understand the need to be here with these guys and get ready for the season. I think it’s kind of the best of both worlds in that aspect, and I’m grateful they took me in that capacity." https://t.co/GJGTx53wLV
— Cody Stavenhagen (@CodyStavenhagen) February 23, 2026
