Philadelphia Phillies' Trea Turner admits he wanted to play in the 2026 WBC.
Trea Turner stole the show during the 2023 World Baseball Classic. He single-handedly put Team USA on his back and helped them reach the championship, where they eventually fell to Team Japan.
Over the six-game stretch three years ago, Turner logged a .391/.440/1.042 slashline, including five home runs and multiple timely hits. Turner was the face of a stacked Team USA lineup and received the nickname “Captain America” over the memorable run.
However, the 2026 WBC Team USA’s roster is missing a key player, and that’s the Philadelphia Phillies shortstop. After being an integral part of the last classic, Turner won’t be competing this year, and he recently admitted that it was something he wanted to do.
“I don't know if I was disappointed. It was something I wanted to do; phone never rang,” said Turner (via OnPattison on X). “I gladly would have done it again, I said the last time if they ever asked, I would probably say yes.”
Mar 21, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; USA shortstop Trea Turner (8) circles the bases after hitting a home run during the second inning against Japan at LoanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn ImagesWith Turner not on the roster, Kansas City Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. will likely be Team USA’s starting shortstop, with Baltimore Orioles infielder Gunnar Henderson being the backup. That’s an impressive and dangerous one-two punch, but it’s still disappointing that Turner isn’t on the roster, considering he wanted to be and the impact he had last time around.
Even though Turner isn't playing, he said it’s something he’ll be following in March and is excited for everyone to be competing, both for Team USA and his fellow Phillies teammates.
“I wish those guys the best. I think it's so much fun. They got a great roster this year, stacked, so I think we're in a good spot to win. I’ll definitely be watching it and wish Kyle, and Bryce and, all these guys, Sosa, and everyone playing. I hope they perform well for their countries.”
If there is one silver lining to Turner not competing in the WBC is that he’ll spend all spring focused on the 2026 season, which will be a pivotal one for the Phillies core.
Maybe not receiving a spot on Team USA’s roster will give Turner some motivation to go out and prove that he’s still one of the top shortstops in the game.
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