“WHAT TOOK YOU SO LONG?”: DODGERS STAR EAGER FOR REDEMPTION
The baseball world was officially stunned and thrilled as Los Angeles Dodgers star catcher Will Smith confirmed his commitment to represent Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC). During an announcement on MLB Network, Smith’s immediate, enthusiastic reply to Manager Mark DeRosa’s invitation said it all: “What took you so long?”
Fresh off a career-best season and his third World Series ring with the Dodgers—a campaign highlighted by a clutch defensive play in the 9th and the game-winning home run in the 11th inning of Game 7—Smith now prepares to anchor Team USA’s lineup on the global stage for the second consecutive time.
THE SHOWDOWN: OHTANI VS. SMITH
Smith’s return immediately sets the stage for the highly anticipated global showdown: a thrilling rivalry against his own Dodgers teammate, Shohei Ohtani.
Ohtani, who has also confirmed his intent to represent Team Japan and defend their 2023 title, will face Smith not as a teammate, but as a direct rival. The rivalry is particularly juicy given Ohtani’s iconic final strikeout of Mike Trout to win the 2023 championship.
- Team USA Strength: Smith joins a quickly filling roster that includes Kyle Schwarber and Gunnar Henderson, giving Team USA one of the most formidable offensive lineups in the tournament.
- The Redemption Arc: After the heartbreak of falling to Japan in the 2023 championship game, Smith’s veteran presence and experience are crucial for Team USA’s quest to reclaim the gold medal.
The 2026 WBC, set for next March, is shaping up to be a showdown no fan will want to miss, with the global stage turning two club teammates into international rivals.
