Why Tarik Skubal won't be pitching for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic final
CBS Sports
by
Matt Snyder
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Team USA's World Baseball Classic roster, featuring star pitcher Tarik Skubal, has suffered a notable setback. Despite his dominance in recent seasons—winning two AL Cy Young awards and boasting a stellar 2.04 ERA—Skubal will only pitch once during pool play, against Great Britain on March 7. If the team advances to the finals, he won't be pitching there, leaving Team USA without their ace for the championship round. Skubal expressed his desire to support his teammates by watching and being present if they reach the finals.
The loss of Skubal's potential contributions leaves a significant gap in the rotation, though Team USA remains well-stocked with talent. Paul Skenes is likely to take on the mantle as the primary starter, supported by All-Stars like Logan Webb, Matthew Boyd, and Joe Ryan (though he’s currently injured). The team also includes young pitchers like Nolan McLean and veteran Clay Holmes. While this depth is impressive, it can’t be denied that Skubal’s absence leaves a void in what could have been a formidable pitching lineup.
The article highlights the broader implications for Team USA's chances in the tournament. With an offense led by Aaron Judge, Cal Raleigh, and Bryce Harper, they remain strong contenders. However, the absence of Skubal—whose playoff experience and success could have provided a critical edge—means the team must rely on their next tier of pitchers to step up. This situation underscores how even minor changes in lineup can impact a team's overall dynamics and chances of success in high-stakes tournaments like the World Baseball Classic.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/23/2026