Naylor leads Canada’s 30-man squad for upcoming World Baseball Classic

Canada has named its roster for the upcoming World Baseball Classic.

The 30-man team features 21 players who are currently playing in the MLB or have previous experience in the Majors.

Seattle Mariners slugger Josh Naylor is the biggest name on the roster as the 28-year-old Mississauga native is coming off a strong 2025 season, hitting .295 with 20 home runs and 92 RBIs.

Burnaby, B.C.’s Tyler O’Neill is also on the squad. The Baltimore Orioles outfielder had a down season in 2025, hitting .199 with nine homers and 26 RBIs over 54 games.

Michael Soroka of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Jameson Taillon of the Chicago Cubs will lead the pitching staff.

“This roster reflects the growth and strength of baseball in Canada,” said Manager Ernie Whitt. “Every opportunity to manage Team Canada at the World Baseball Classic is incredibly special, and I’m honoured to once again lead this group. There’s a competitive edge, experience, and pride throughout this roster, and we’re excited about the challenge ahead.”

The roster included 14 players from the 2023 World Baseball Classic when Canada failed to make it out of the group stage with a 2-2 record.

The 2026 World Baseball Classic runs from March 5-17.

Canada will in Pool A against Puerto Rico, Panama, Cuba and Colombia. They begin their tournament on March 7 against Colombia, playing at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in Puerto Rico.

Here’s a full look at the roster:

Catchers: Liam Hicks, Bo Naylor

Infielders: Tyler Black, Matt Davidson, Adam Hall, Edouard Julien, Otto Lopez, Josh Naylor, Abraham Toro

Outfielders: Owen Caissie, Denzel Clarke, Tyler O’Neill, Jacob Robson, Jared Young

Pitchers: Logan Allen, Micah Ashman, Phillippe Aumont, Jordan Balazovic, Eric Cerantola, Indigo Diaz, Antoine Jean, Carter Loewen, Adam Macko, James Paxton, Cal Quantrill, Noah Skirrow, Michael Soroka, Jameson Taillon, Matt Wilkinson, Rob Zastryzny