"Sasaki has had a history of injuries this season, and the team reserves the right to suspend his participation in the WBC," a source in the story said. During an interview with Japanese TV earlier in the offseason, manager Dave Roberts expressed doubt over Sasaki playing in the tournament. "I'd be surprised if Sasaki were to pitch in the WBC," Roberts said.
A third Chicago Cubs player has committed to play in the World Baseball Classic, though this time it's not for Team USA. Owen Caissie will represent Team Canada in the 2026 WBC, marking his second time on their roster. He recorded three hits across Canada's three games, including a home run. He also drew a walk and struck out twice.
The Winter Meetings have generally been slower over the last half-decade or so than what a lot of us were used to, largely due to the pandemic and the increasing ubiquity of virtual communication. It used to be that you pretty much had to be in the same room as someone to get a deal done, but that's obviously no longer the case.
The World Baseball Classic is just around the corner. There will be some Toronto Blue Jays players participating in the tournament that will begin in March. You have the obvious players, such as Vladimir Guerrero Jr., but some minor leaguers could factor onto their respective rosters. Not just that, some of the Blue Jays' free agents and recently released players could find their way onto a national team. Most people reading this article will likely be cheering for Team Canada. They'll be in a pool with Puerto Rico, Panama, Cuba, and Colombia, with games taking place in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Los Angeles Dodgers begin their 2026 Spring Training schedule on Saturday, Feb. 21, with a matchup against the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium. The Dodgers will play a total of 28 Cactus League games next spring, including 14 at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Ariz. L.A. is also set to host an exhibition game against Team Mexico on March 4 ahead of the 2026 World Baseball Classic.