Rockies utility player Willi Castro has joined Puerto Rico's roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, marking the second MLB All-Star addition this week. The 29-year-old, who earned an All-Star nod in 2024 with the Twins, will make his WBC debut. This follows the inclusion of Nolan Arenado and with Francisco Lindor as captain.
Team Puerto Rico bolstered its lineup for the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic by adding Colorado Rockies utility man Willi Castro to the roster, an announcement made on Tuesday. This marks the second MLB All-Star to join the squad this week, following Monday's news of eight-time All-Star Nolan Arenado committing to play. Mets superstar Francisco Lindor will captain the team.
Castro, a 29-year-old switch-hitter, signed a two-year contract with the Rockies on Thursday after a challenging 2025 season split between the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs. In 120 games, he batted .226 with 11 home runs and a .679 OPS. His versatility shone through as he played every position on the field except catcher and first base. Notably, Castro made the 2024 Midsummer Classic as a Twin, but this will be his first appearance in the World Baseball Classic.
Puerto Rico is set to host first-round action for Pool A at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan, beginning March 6 against Colombia. The pool also features Cuba, Canada, and Panama. These roster moves signal strong preparations for the international tournament, highlighting Puerto Rico's depth with MLB talent.
