"The World Baseball Classic is quickly approaching. On Tuesday afternoon, Puerto Rican manager Carlos Beltrán noted that Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter, George Springer, was one of three players to receive an invite to play for the country at the 2026 World Baseball Classic, along with Carlos Correa, Riley Greene, and Nolan Arenado. Springer, born in the state of Connecticut, was born to a Puerto Rican mother and is also of Panamanian descent thanks to his paternal grandfather."
"As for the potential to play for USA, Springer's stats were fantastic last season, but there is tough competition for the designated hitter role on Team USA's roster. Namely, Kyle Schwarber. The designated hitter recently re-signed with the Phillies and hit 56 home runs in 724 plate appearances for a 152 wRC+ last season. Schwarber finished as the runner up for the National League MVP."
George Springer received an invitation to represent Puerto Rico at the 2026 World Baseball Classic alongside Carlos Correa, Riley Greene, and Nolan Arenado. Springer was born in Connecticut to a Puerto Rican mother and has Panamanian ancestry through his paternal grandfather, making him eligible for three countries. The 36-year-old has not played in the WBC but appeared on Team USA's provisional 2017 roster that won the tournament. Springer enjoyed a major rebound in 2025, hitting .309/.399/.560 with 32 home runs and a 5.2 fWAR in 586 plate appearances, primarily as a designated hitter, and hit a Game 7 three-run homer to send Toronto to the World Series. Strong competition for Team USA's DH spot, notably Kyle Schwarber, may influence his national choice while Panama appears the least likely option.
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