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Mookie Betts to Skip 2026 World Baseball Classic for Expected Birth of Third Child

He disclosed the decision on a livestream, citing the baby's due date as his reason.

Overview

  • Betts told streamer Adin Ross he planned to play but now cannot because the baby is due during the March 2026 tournament.
  • He joked that his wife said she would divorce him if he missed the birth, emphasizing his intent to be there for his family.
  • Team USA loses an elite two-way contributor after Betts appeared in the 2023 WBC, when he hit .313 across seven games.
  • The United States opens WBC play the first week of March in Houston, with potential semifinals and the final in mid-March in Miami.
  • EssentiallySports reports Team USA has recently added pitchers Nolan McLean, Clay Holmes and Joe Ryan, with Paul Skenes also committed.