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Pete Crow-Armstrong to Represent Team Canada in 2026 WBC

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/0 .. strong-to-represent-team-canada-in-2026-wbc.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 13:28 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: CANADA, UNITED STATES

New York, NY - February 8, 2026 - New York Mets outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong has officially announced his commitment to represent Team Canada at the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC), injecting excitement into the Canadian roster and adding a compelling narrative to the international tournament. The announcement, made Friday, confirms Crow-Armstrong's decision to play for his country of birth despite being a former first-round draft pick of the Chicago White Sox.

Crow-Armstrong's journey to this point has been marked by both promise and a surprising shift in allegiances, at least on the international stage. Drafted 20th overall by the White Sox in 2023, the outfielder quickly became a highly touted prospect within the organization. While he developed within the Chicago system, Crow-Armstrong's dual citizenship - possessing both Canadian and American passports - allowed him the unique opportunity to choose which nation he would represent in international competition. Ultimately, he's chosen to honor his Canadian roots.

This decision shouldn't be viewed as a rejection of the White Sox, but rather a testament to Crow-Armstrong's personal connection to Canada. Sources close to the player indicate a strong desire to contribute to the growth of baseball within Canada and to inspire a new generation of Canadian athletes. His choice highlights the increasing globalization of baseball and the appeal of the WBC as a platform for showcasing national pride.

The World Baseball Classic, first held in 2006, has quickly become a premier international baseball event, attracting top MLB talent alongside rising stars from across the globe. The tournament provides a unique atmosphere, blending fierce competition with nationalistic fervor. Past WBCs have been characterized by dramatic upsets and unforgettable performances, and the 2026 edition is shaping up to be no different.

Team Canada, historically a competitive but often overlooked team in the WBC, will undoubtedly benefit from Crow-Armstrong's inclusion. The young outfielder has quickly established himself as a valuable asset to the New York Mets, known for his exceptional fielding, developing offensive skills, and dynamic presence in center field. His speed and ability to make game-changing plays will be crucial for Canada's success.

Experts predict that Crow-Armstrong's presence will not only bolster Canada's on-field performance but also significantly raise the team's profile. He joins a growing list of MLB stars choosing to represent their homelands in the WBC, indicating a growing commitment to the tournament from both players and organizations. Other confirmed Canadian participants include Cal Quantrill and Bo Bichette, creating a strong core for the team.

"Pete brings a level of athleticism and offensive potential that we desperately need," stated Canadian national team manager, Mike Johnson in a press conference Saturday. "He's a game-changer, and his enthusiasm to represent Canada is infectious. We are thrilled to have him on board."

The decision to play for Canada comes at an important time for baseball in the country. While hockey remains the dominant sport, baseball is steadily gaining popularity, particularly among younger generations. Crow-Armstrong's participation in the WBC is expected to further fuel this growth, providing a role model for aspiring Canadian baseball players. The Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame recently announced a significant increase in youth registrations in the wake of the announcement, a clear indicator of the "Crow-Armstrong effect".

The 2026 World Baseball Classic is scheduled to begin in March, with games being played across multiple cities including Phoenix, Miami, and Tokyo. Canada is grouped with the United States, Mexico, Colombia and Great Britain in a particularly challenging pool. Crow-Armstrong and Team Canada will need to overcome significant obstacles if they hope to advance to the knockout stages. However, with a talented roster and a renewed sense of national pride, they are confident they can make a strong showing on the international stage.