The World Baseball Classic is almost here, and the red, white, and blue are getting their roster ready. But wait—where’s Mike Trout? The Los Angeles Angels’ $426.5 million superstar is eager to suit up for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, but somehow, he’s still waiting for the call. So, what’s the holdup?
The World Baseball Classic, an international showcase of baseball talent and national pride, will take place March 5 to 17, 2026. With games played in world-renowned locations like Tokyo Dome, San Juan, Houston, and Miami, the tournament guarantees an exciting exhibition of sport and global competition.
Yet, in the anticipation and excitement, Trout has found himself in an unusual spot. Though he has said in public that he will represent the United States, he has yet to receive an invitation. “I had a blast doing it [in 2023], and I plan to do it again,” Trout said following an exhibition game. “I haven’t heard anything yet. Nobody’s brought it up to me, but if they ask, I’m there.”
Trout’s eagerness stemmed from his WBC 2023 season. Trout’s 2023 WBC experience demonstrated how he could shine on an international stage. He hit .318 with a double, a triple, and a home run in six games, demonstrating his offensive talent even under high-pressure conditions. He embraced the role of team captain, leading by example and inspiring his teammates with his passion and intensity.
The eagerness is a significant shift from Trout’s decision to skip the 2017 WBC. At the time, he emphasized a conventional off-season and possibly misjudged the appeal of the tournament. But after seeing the electrifying atmosphere and the sense of camaraderie among players in 2023, he changed his heart. “Just the whole atmosphere, and it looked like they were having so much fun,” the three-time AL MVP recalled. “I think that’s what I regretted.” Now, with a renewed perspective and a burning desire to contribute, Trout is ready to embrace the WBC experience.
Can Trout still be a difference-maker for Team USA?
It would be a dream to have Trout on the 2026 WBC roster. His ability to score, combined with his leadership and experience, would enhance the team’s chances of going deep in the playoffs. He could potentially fill a middle-of-the-order role, driving in runs and providing leadership to a team that might feature many young stars. Can you imagine Trout in the lineup with the likes of Bobby Witt Jr. and Mookie Betts? Opposing pitchers would hate to see it!
But with recent injuries, including a torn meniscus, the outfielder played just 29 games in 2024. His recent injury history raises worries over his ability to withstand the demands of a high-intensity tournament. Furthermore, with younger, more agile outfielders like Julio Rodríguez and Corbin Carroll potentially vying for spots. Trout might face competition for a starting role.
Since 2021, the veteran has missed more than 50 percent of games that he could have played because of a series of injuries, and his once-stellar statistics have taken a hit as well. He played only 29 games in 2024, batting .220 with 10 home runs and 14 RBIs—a significant drop-off from when he used to regularly hit over. 30 homers, 100 RBIs, .300+ batting average.
Meanwhile, Julio Rodríguez and Corbin Carroll have been models of consistency, logging over 130 games per season. Rodríguez has blended power and speed seamlessly, launching 20+ homers and swiping 20+ bags in each of his first three seasons. Carroll, on the other hand, has evolved into a dynamic offensive force—a hitter who combines batting average, pop, and elite base-running instincts to wreak havoc on opponents.
For Mike Trout, this WBC presents an opportunity to turn the page. Injuries derailed his 2024 season. A shift to right field in 2025 signaled his new chapter. Now, a strong tournament could serve as a reassuring sign that he’s still among the game’s elite. It’s also a chance to remind the world of the brilliance that has defined his career.
In baseball, as in life, sometimes you have to wait for your pitch. Mike Trout, despite his eagerness and undeniable talent, finds himself in that very position. Will Team USA recognize his value and give him the opportunity to shine in the 2026 World Baseball Classic? Only time will tell.
The post “Haven’t Heard Anything Yet” – Angels’ $426.5M Star Left Hanging on WBC 2026 Update Despite Being Fired Up for Team USA appeared first on EssentiallySports.
