The Toronto Blue Jays pitcher has been one of several players unable to get approval for the international tournament

Francisco Lindor and Carlos Correa, among other notable MLB players, were denied insurance coverage and thus are unlikely to compete in the upcoming tournament.

Puerto Rico has long been a baseball power on the international scene and finished as runner-up in the WBC in both 2017 and 2013. As for the 2026 tournament, the United States is widely regarded as the favorites going in with a roster that includes the likes of Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt Jr., Tarik Skubal, Paul Skenes, and others.

Per Puerto Rican outlets, there is still a chance Lindor gets approved to play if a private insurer agrees to cover him.

Some of baseball’s biggest stars won’t be playing in the global tournament next month after not receiving insurance to play. Here’s what’s going on.

According to a recent report, Team Puerto Rico is considering not participating in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic.

After playing for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic the last two editions, Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Nolan Arenado decided to switch jerseys and represent Team Puerto Rico in this year’s Classic — a decision that hasn’t sat well with some Team USA fans.