Now that we are officially on to baseball season, it is time for Minnesota Twins fans to get excited about 2026 Spring Training and the World Baseball Classic. While most fans will root for Team USA, there are several countries that fans can cheer for based on the countries being represented by current Twins participating in the WBC.
There are seven Twins players on six different WBC rosters. Have a look below at who is playing in the World Baseball Classic, and which team they will be competing with.
Team USA
Byron Buxton: The face of Minnesota's franchise, Twins fans are probably most excited to see Buxton in the WBC. He should crack the starting lineup as the United States' center fielder. We just want him to showcase his stardom on an international level. We all know he is among the game's top hitters and top defensive players. It's time for everyone to see that in real time.
Joe Ryan: Team USA's starting rotation was already loaded, but Ryan joined the team soon after Buxton was brought on. There is a ton of excitement surrounding Ryan going into 2026, considering he avoided an arbitration hearing several months after making his first All-Star Game.
Team Puerto Rico
Luis Quinones: The Twins signed Quinones to a minor league deal this past December. He's had a tumultuous career after serving a suspension in 2020 for failing a PED test. He's dealt with injuries the last few seasons, too. The 28-year-old pitched in 3.1 innings in Rookie Ball this past season. Hopefully the 2026 WBC is a stepping stone into a brighter future for him.
Team Venezuela
Pablo López: It was a harsh 2025 season for López, who looked strong in 14 starts but battled through injuries. He'll be on the world stage again after striking out six batters in 4.2 innings for Team Venezuela in 2023, which guided them to a victory against Puerto Rico.
Team Italy
Dan Altavilla: The 33-year-old had a remarkable comeback season in 2025 with the White Sox, registering a 2.48 ERA in 28 appearances. This earned him a deal with the Twins this winter, as he looks to become a reliable option for a bullpen that needs plenty of help.
Team Mexico
Taj Bradley: When Bradley was traded to the Twins last year, he made six starts. Four of them were forgettable, but he showed glimpses of stardom. If he wants to crack the Twins' starting rotation this season, Bradley is going to need to show less of the struggles he displayed in 2025. Though it's a tad unfair to use the WBC as an audition, Bradley could impress the Twins in this tournament, giving him a leg up against several arms eager to make the rotation.
Team Israel
Matt Bowman: Signing with the Twins two weeks ago, Bowman makes his return to the franchise after appearing in five games in 2024 with Minnesota. He's played for seven teams in as many seasons, but just like Altavilla, he has a chance to provide value to a relief staff that is not currently strong. Playing on the world stage can help him get ready for the 2026 season.