World Baseball Classic Representation

The Cardinal Chronicle
World Baseball Classic Representation
St. Louis, MO
By Ray Mileur

The St. Louis Cardinals will have significant representation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, with nine players, two coaches, and one athletic trainer named to provisional rosters for the tournament scheduled for March 5–17.

Among those currently in Major League camp are right-handed pitcher *Riley O’Brien (Team Korea), catcher Leo Bernal (Panama), right-handed pitcher Gordon Graceffo (Italy), infielder Thomas Saggese (Italy), infielder Luis Gastelum (Mexico), outfielder Matt Koperniak (Great Britain), and infielder Bryan Torres (Puerto Rico).

In addition, bench coach Stubby Clapp will represent Canada, and coach Julio Rangel will join Team Panama. Certified Assistant Athletic Trainer Chris Conroy has also been named to Puerto Rico’s provisional roster.

While final roster decisions are still to come, the early representation reflects both the international reach of the Cardinals organization and the depth currently present in camp. The World Baseball Classic continues to showcase the global nature of the game, and St. Louis will once again have a visible presence on that stage.

* Editor's note -Although initially named to the roster, Riley O'Brien was forced to withdraw in February due to a mild calf strain sustained during spring training. He was replaced on the roster by Kim Taek-yeon

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