8 Marlins players who could make World Baseball Classic debuts in 2026

The World Baseball Classic isn’t for everybody, but the just-completed fifth iteration of the tournament was the biggest one yet. We have arrived at a point that fans and participating athletes care more deeply about the outcome than ever before, and the audience size, atmosphere and quality of play reflected that.

Major League Baseball teams are understandably protective of their players. As long as the WBC continues to be held in March—so close to MLB Opening Day—there will be certain situations in which guys are discouraged from representing their countries (increased injury risk, detrimental to regular season preparation, etc.). However, I’m optimistic that teams’ attitudes are evolving.…