World Baseball Network is taking a way too early look at what some squads could look like for the World Baseball Classic (WBC). Today, we look at what a potential lineup could look like for Great Britain.
A majority of Great Britain’s roster is expected to return for their second run at the World Baseball Classic, as it is the first year that Great Britain doesn’t have to re-qualify to enter the tournament. Players born in the Bahamas are also eligible for Great Britain’s team, so it would be intriguing to see Sebastian Walcott, Jazz Chisholm Jr., and Kristian Robinson attempt to join Great Britain in a run for the title. Other players who could be featured in their lineup include Ian Lewis, Ryan Reckley, Nick Ward, Alex Crosby, D’Shawn Knowles, Jaden Rudd, and Darnell Sweeney.
Great Britain’s rotation featured MLB veteran Vance Worley, who fared alright during the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Worley pitched between the Phillies, Twins, Pirates, Orioles, and Marlins organizations from 2010-17. If he doesn’t join the team for 2026, Tyler Viza could be a favorite to lock down Great Britain’s opening game. Viza made 16 starts in Liga Mexicana de Béisbol (LMB) in 2024, going 7-2 with a 3.30 ERA and collecting 62 strikeouts across 79 innings. Other pitchers who could earn a spot in their rotation include McKenzie Mills, Tahnaj Thomas, and Akeel Morris.
As for their bullpen, Michael Petersen could be gearing up to lock down saves for Great Britain. Petersen made his MLB debut in 2024 with the Los Angeles Dodgers and pitched with the Miami Marlins. In 16 appearances, Petersen went 3-1 with a 5.95 ERA, logging 19.2 innings, striking out 14 batters. Other candidates who could join Petersen in Great Britain’s bullpen include Jake Esch, Chavez Fernander, Ian Gibaut, Brandon Noriega, Andre Scrubb, and Graham Spraker.
The 2026 World Baseball Classic will begin on March 5 and run until March 17. Great Britain will be in Pool B, where it will face the United States, Mexico, and Italy. Pool B will be played at Daikin Park in Houston, Texas.
