Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton has been added to Team USA's roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, marking his debut in the international tournament. USA Baseball announced the news on social media Monday. The 32-year-old joins a talented lineup of committed players for the event set for March 2026.
Twins outfielder Byron Buxton, a native of Baxley, Georgia, has committed to represent Team USA in the sixth edition of the World Baseball Classic, scheduled for March 2026. Selected by Minnesota with the second overall pick in the 2012 MLB Draft, Buxton has spent his entire professional career with the Twins. This addition bolsters an already impressive roster that includes stars like Aaron Judge, Gunnar Henderson, Corbin Carroll, Kyle Schwarber, Tarik Skubal, Paul Skenes, and Mason Miller.
Buxton is coming off a standout 2024 season, despite missing time due to a concussion and left rib-cage inflammation. Over 126 games, he achieved career highs with 35 home runs, 83 RBIs, and 97 runs scored, along with 24 stolen bases and a .264/.327/.551 slash line. His performance earned him his first Silver Slugger Award, recognizing his excellence as an offensive player.
Team USA's tournament journey begins in Pool B on March 6, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET, facing Brazil at Houston's Daikin Park. The World Baseball Classic provides a global stage for MLB's top talents to compete internationally, building on the success of previous editions.
