"It's been overwhelming to the point where we've wondered if the federations are aware that there are 29 other teams to purge in the league. We have a very diverse roster, and it shows in the tournament."
"There's definitely pieces missing in this locker room. But this clubhouse was so tight last year that we'll be able to find that groove right away when they come back."
"Saw [Byron] Buxton get hit in the elbow. That's every organization's nightmare, to see something like that. There's always that. But you can't go compete cautiously."
The Seattle Mariners have 18 players competing in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, representing the largest contingent from any MLB team. This includes All-Stars Julio Rodriguez, Andres Munoz, and Cal Raleigh, along with a quarter of the team's 40-man roster. The absences have noticeably impacted spring training operations at the Peoria Sports Complex, with unopened gear and fan mail piling up at empty lockers. Despite the roster gaps, the team maintains confidence in quickly regaining cohesion upon their return. Manager Dan Wilson and the front office acknowledge injury risks inherent in international competition but recognize players must compete without caution.
#world-baseball-classic #seattle-mariners #spring-training #international-competition #roster-management
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