Why Freddie Freeman isn’t playing for Canada in the 2026 World Baseball Classic

Why Freddie Freeman isn’t playing for Canada in the 2026 World Baseball Classic originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Team Canada will be without one of its best players for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Freddie Freeman, a cornerstone of the national team’s identity for nearly a decade, has officially withdrawn from the roster just weeks before the tournament’s first pitch.

The 2024 World Series MVP’s absence leaves a significant void in both the clubhouse and the cleanup spot. While Freeman has historically been the first to commit to Team Canada as a tribute to his late mother, he recently clarified that "personal circumstances" would keep him from traveling with the team to Puerto Rico for the group stage.

Although early reports during the winter meetings hinted at potential health procedures, Freeman has since dismissed those concerns, emphasizing that his choice was centered on a need to remain close to his family in California during the spring. His withdrawal forces Canada to pivot their strategy as they enter a grueling Pool A battle against powerhouses like Cuba and Puerto Rico.

Here's why the superstar will not be playing for the Team Up North in the 2026 tournament

MORE: World Baseball Classic rosters 2026

Why Freddie Freeman is not playing for Canada in the WBC

Freeman, a cornerstone of the national team’s identity for nearly a decade and the reigning World Series MVP, withdrew from the roster just weeks before the tournament’s first pitch.

The veteran slugger’s absence leaves a significant void in both the clubhouse and the heart of the order. While Freeman has historically been the first to commit to Team Canada as a tribute to his late mother, he recently clarified that "personal circumstances" would keep him from traveling with the team to Puerto Rico for the opening stage.

Freeman has emphasized that his decision centers on a need to remain close to his family in California during the spring months. His withdrawal forces Canada to pivot their strategy as they enter a grueling Pool A battle against international powerhouses.

While Freeman initially cited vague personal reasons in January, it was confirmed in late February 2026 that he and his wife, Chelsea, are expecting their fourth child via surrogate. Given the timing of the birth and his desire to support his family after their youngest son's health scare in 2024, Freeman chose to stay in California for the spring.

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Freddie Freeman stats

Freeman enters the 2026 season as one of the most consistent and decorated hitters in baseball history. Fresh off his second World Series title and a historic World Series MVP performance in 2024, his absence from the 2026 WBC is a major blow to Team Canada’s offensive production.

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Other notable players on Team Canada for World Baseball Classic

Leading the charge in Freeman's absence are the Naylor brothers Josh and Bo, who represent the new heartbeat of the Canadian roster. Josh Naylor, coming off a massive season in Seattle, is expected to take over full-time first-base duties, while his brother Bo provides a rare combination of power and speed behind the plate. They are joined by two-time Gold Glover Tyler O'Neill and Colorado Rockies infielder Edouard Julien, forming a high-OBP core that remains capable of surprising international powerhouses.

The pitching staff is equally intriguing, featuring the long-awaited return of veteran Jameson Taillon and the debut of Michael Soroka. Adding a touch of nostalgia to the squad, veteran left-hander James "Big Maple" Paxton has reportedly come out of retirement specifically to suit up for this tournament. With high-ceiling prospects like Owen Caissie and Tyler Black ready to break out on the world stage, Canada’s depth is arguably at its strongest point in the history of the Classic.

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Canada World Baseball Classic schedule