The selection of USA arrives lit World Baseball Classic 2026. In just two exhibition games, the team has scored 29 runs, an offensive demonstration that makes it clear that its power seems to have no limits.
On Wednesday, the Americans crushed the Colorado Rockies 14-4 at Salt River Fields, just a day after winning 15-1 in their first prep game. In total, the lineup led by Mark DeRosa has produced an offensive avalanche that confirms why it is considered one of the most feared in the tournament.
The captain of the team, Aaron Judgeset the tone from the first inning with a stunning 453-foot solo home run off left-hander Kyle Freeland. The hit came off his bat at 115.9 mph and sparked a standing ovation from the crowd along with traditional chants of “USA!” in a packed stadium.
The three-time MVP will look to lead the United States to its first World Classic title since 2017.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Judge said. “Being surrounded by the greatness that’s in this locker room — MVPs, Cy Young winners, World Series champions, All-Stars — the list goes on and on. It’s going to be an incredible experience.”
Another who is still on fire is Alex Bregman, who hit his third home run in consecutive games. The infielder hit a two-run homer in the fifth inning while playing second base, one of the defensive variants that DeRosa is evaluating.
The display of power did not end there. Paul Goldschmidt, Will Smith and Byron Buxton also hit home runs on a day in which the United States hit five home runs. Additionally, Brice Turang contributed two doubles and two RBIs.
While the offense dominated, the crowd also experienced a special moment with the return of Clayton Kershaw to the mound. The 37-year-old left-hander pitched for the first time since announcing his retirement from the Los Angeles Dodgers after 18 seasons in the Major Leagues.
Kershaw gave up a solo home run to Mickey Moniak on his third pitch and ended up giving up two runs, a hit and a walk in two-thirds of an inning, although he was dismissed to a standing ovation.
“It was something special,” Kershaw said. “I thought I would never throw a ball again, so being able to do it again with ‘USA’ on my chest was very exciting.”
Manager Mark DeRosa has explained that Kershaw is on the roster primarily as an emergency option and leader within the clubhouse, bringing his experience to the pitching staff.
The United States will open its participation in the World Baseball Classic on Friday in Houston against Brazil. Logan Webb will be the starter, while Tarik Skubal is scheduled to pitch Saturday against Great Britain and Paul Skenes will face Mexico on Monday.
New York Mets right-hander Nolan McLean is tentatively scheduled to start Tuesday against Italy in the final group game, although he is currently dealing with vertigo-like symptoms as he attempts to join the team in Houston. According to DeRosa, his condition has improved in recent days.
