Team USA WBC Roster: Breaking down the strengths and weakness of the American squad in the tournament 

Team USA will look to defend their 2017 World Baseball Classic gold medal, as the tournament is set to take place for the first time in six years. From March 8th to 21st, 20 different nations are set to face off to determine which team will win the fifth iteration of the WBC.

Heading into the tournament, Team USA has one of the strongest rosters in the history of the World Baseball Classic. After Mike Trout committed to the roster, players continued to join him in representing their country on the world stage.

According to multiple sports betting websites, the United States and the Dominican Republic are the heavy favorites to win the tournament this year. However, there are several strong rosters outside of those two, including Japan and Puerto Rico. The unpredictable nature of baseball will make the World Baseball Classic a must-see on television.

"Mike Trout just announced that he will be playing in the World Baseball Classic in 2023. He will be Team USA’s team captain." - B/R Walk-Off

The last time, the United States of America defeated Puerto Rico 8-0 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. With the gold medal, the USA became only the third different team to win the World Baseball Classic, with Japan winning in 2006 and 2009, along with the Dominican Republic in 2013.

Here is a deeper look into the strengths and weaknesses of the American roster to determine how they can succeed and what may hold them back from the gold medal.

Team USA is strong in almost every aspect of the game heading into the WBC

The 2023 edition of Team USA may be the best team assembled. Not only will they be led by team captain Mike Trout, but the squad will also feature Trea Turner, Mookie Betts, and Nolan Arenado.

One strength for the USA, which may be the differentiator between them and the rest of the field, is their catchers. Both J.T. Realmuto and Will Smith will handle their catching duties, creating one of the strongest catching duos in history.

"Will Smith has committed to play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. Who would you start at C in the WBC: Smith or Realmuto?" - @Shawn_Spradling

Weaknesses of the squad heading into the WBC

The United States roster is loaded from top to bottom, but the depth of their starting pitcher is questionable. No doubt they will all perform to their maximum abilities, as they have the best rotations in the tournament. However, the rotation could be a weak link for the squad as they progress into the World Baseball Classic.

The team will feature the likes of Adam Wainwright, Clayton Kershaw, Nestor Cortes Jr., and Logan Webb. While they all have the ability to perform at an elite level, they have the potential to crack under the pressure of the World Baseball Classic.