Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman has pulled out of the 2026 World Baseball Classic for Team Canada due to personal reasons. The nine-time All-Star, who represented Canada in the previous two tournaments, cited family priorities amid recent health challenges for his son. This decision represents a significant loss for Canada's lineup ahead of the March event.
Freddie Freeman, a California native with Canadian parents, has announced his withdrawal from the 2026 World Baseball Classic, where he was expected to play for Team Canada. The decision, reported on January 10, 2026, stems from personal reasons, including a desire to spend more time with his family during the offseason. Freeman's son, Max, faced immune system issues during the previous season, and the 36-year-old veteran also dealt with an injury last March. He has honored his late mother, who was from Canada, by participating in the 2017 and 2023 WBCs.
Freeman's absence is a blow to Canada, as the consistent hitter—boasting over 2,400 career hits, an NL MVP award, and nine All-Star selections—would have strengthened their batting order. However, the team has depth at first base with Josh Naylor, who recently signed a five-year, $92.5 million contract with the Seattle Mariners. Canada can still utilize Naylor at first while potentially deploying another player at designated hitter, a flexibility Freeman's presence would have enhanced.
Other roster updates include Chicago Cubs pitcher Jameson Taillon joining the team, while Los Angeles Angels reliever Jordan Romano has also withdrawn for personal reasons. Notable projected players for Canada include Cleveland Guardians catcher Bo Naylor, Baltimore Orioles outfielder Tyler O'Neill, Oakland Athletics outfielder Denzel Clarke, and Miami Marlins prospect Owen Caissie.
The 2026 WBC is set to begin on March 5, with Canada holding seventh-best odds to win at +4000, behind favorites like Team USA (+110), Japan (+350), and the Dominican Republic (+350). Freeman, coming off two consecutive World Series titles with the Dodgers—the latest against the Toronto Blue Jays—will focus on preparing for the upcoming MLB season.
