Tarik Skubal leads Team USA's pitching in 2026 WBC start. [Image Source: ATHLONSPORTS]
For years, the United States has struggled to assemble a roster of elite pitching talent for the World Baseball Classic (WBC). However, as the 2026 WBC approaches, that trend is shifting dramatically with the inclusion of some of the game’s top hurlers, including reigning Cy Young Award winners like Tarik Skubal. This marks a significant upgrade to Team USA’s pitching staff, setting them up as clear favorites in that department.
Manager Mark DeRosa’s roster for the 2026 tournament features a deep rotation and bullpen, blending proven veterans with emerging stars, all poised to provide the United States with a formidable pitching advantage throughout the competition.
Projected Starting Pitchers for Team USA in WBC 2026
Team USA’s opening round pitching rotation is well-defined and strategically structured. The plan kicks off with left-hander Logan Webb starting the first game against Brazil on Friday, March 6. Following him, Detroit Tigers’ ace Tarik Skubal is slated to make a single start against Great Britain on Saturday, March 7. Pittsburgh Pirates’ right-hander Paul Skenes will follow in Game 3 versus Mexico on March 9, while New York Mets’ Nolan McLean, if healthy, is set for Game 4 against Italy on March 10.
Mark DeRosa explained the careful management of pitchers’ workloads leading up to the MLBseason, saying,
Image of: Tarik Skubal
“There’s obviously guardrails for the tournament … pitch count-wise, but there’s also guardrails for guys having to throw on certain days to get ready for their team’s Opening Day.”
DeRosa’s acknowledgment highlights the balancing act between WBC commitments and MLB season preparations.
Skubal’s participation is particularly limited; he is confirmed to make only one start in the Classic, the game against Great Britain. Prior to spring training, Skubal expressed his intention to contribute briefly but meaningfully, stating,
“I’m trying to do both things — trying to pitch for Team USA, but I understand the need to be here with these guys [Tigers] and get ready for the season,”
followed by,
“I think it’s kind of the best of both worlds in that aspect, and I’m grateful they took me in that capacity.”
His planned pitch count stands at around 55 pitches for that outing, according to Bob Nightengale.
Significance of the Skenes-Skubal Duo in the Rotation
The tandem of Paul Skenes and Tarik Skubal presents one of the most formidable starting pitcher combinations in WBC history. Both are reigning Cy Young Award winners and will be central to Team USA’s chances of claiming the championship. While Skenes’ exact pitch limits have not been disclosed, it is likely that his innings will also be carefully monitored to preserve his readiness for the MLB season. This pairing elevates the team’s credibility, providing it with an edge over other nations that may not boast pitching of this caliber.
Beyond these key starters, Logan Webb remains a vital component. Webb has demonstrated durability by leading MLB in innings pitched for three consecutive seasons and striking out a league-high 224 batters in 2025. Following Skubal’s lone start, Webb is expected to serve as the team’s second-leading starter.
With Minnesota Twins‘ Joe Ryan sidelined due to a back injury, lefty Matthew Boyd from the Chicago Cubs is another significant option. Boyd had a solid 2025 season, pitching 179.2 innings with a 3.21 ERA and 154 strikeouts, his highest since 2019. He may see innings to support the rotation, especially if pitchers like Skenes or Skubal face innings restrictions.
Additional starting pitcher prospects include Mets’ Nolan McLean and Clay Holmes, both of whom can serve as bullpen reinforcements if necessary. Despite being newly retired, Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw is on the roster but is unlikely to assume a major starting role, instead serving as a potential innings eater in long-outcome games.
Depth and Versatility in Team USA’s Bullpen
Team USA’s relief corps boasts a lineup of experienced pitchers led by San Diego Padres’ closer Mason Miller, known for his high-velocity pitches and expected to serve as the ninth-inning specialist in the tournament. This bullpen is further strengthened by several reliable MLB relievers, ensuring a strong back-end pitching staff.
Left-handed pitchers, although fewer in number, offer vital matchup versatility. Garrett Cleavinger of the Rays, Gabe Speier from the Seattle Mariners, and Ryan Yarbrough of the Yankees will provide tactical options against left-handed hitters. Their ERAs range between 2.35 and 4.36, reflecting solid performance levels.
Moreover, Mark DeRosa may employ some starting pitchers in bullpen roles if the situation demands. Nolan McLean, Clay Holmes, Clayton Kershaw, and veteran Michael Wacha of the Kansas City Royals present valuable flexibility as swingmen capable of bridging starting and relief duties.
Implications for Team USA and Future Expectations
The 2026 World Baseball Classic positions Team USA with arguably its deepest and most talented pitching staff in the history of the tournament. The careful balance between WBC workloads and MLB season readiness remains a critical factor, but the combination of Cy Young winners, durable innings eaters, and versatile bullpen arms equips the Americans with a competitive edge against international rivals.
Manager Mark DeRosa’s decisions on pitcher usage will significantly influence Team USA’s capacity to advance deep into the tournament. While Skubal’s contribution will be brief, its impact could be pivotal in pool play. The presence of Webb, Skenes, and a strong bullpen provides assurance that USA’s pitching will remain a strength throughout the competition.
As the WBC nears, expectations are high that this pitching depth can finally help the United States break through on the international stage and contend seriously for the championship title.
Tarik Skubal is scheduled to throw 55 pitches against Great Britain in the World Baseball Classic and then return back to Detroit Tigers Spring Training, per @BNightengalepic.twitter.com/UKYpjTxbTR
