Overview
- At a press conference, Bellinger said he does not expect to play in the WBC, citing a commitment to prepare for the Yankees’ season.
- Team USA manager Mark DeRosa told Ken Rosenthal he had eyed Bellinger for the final position-player spot but respects the decision.
- DeRosa is weighing alternatives for that roster slot, including another first baseman, an additional outfielder, or a third catcher to free Cal Raleigh and Will Smith for pinch-hit duties.
- Bellinger recently signed a five-year, $162.5 million deal with New York, reinforcing his emphasis on a full, controlled spring training.
- Team USA remains well stocked with power bats, with Aaron Judge, Byron Buxton, Corbin Carroll, and Pete Crow-Armstrong in the outfield, and Bryce Harper widely expected to handle first base according to reports.