Canada: Freddie Freeman retires from the World Classic

Just this week, we learned that 23 players had been confirmed for Team Canada for the upcoming World Baseball Classic. This was expected to be the best lineup to represent the Maple Leafs in a very long time.

But we may have to think again. Last night (Saturday), Sportsnet's Shi Davidi reported that Freeman had withdrawn from the tournament for personal reasons, as had former Toronto Blue Jays reliever Jordan Romano.

Some tough WBC news for Canada as Freddie Freeman withdraws for personal reasons. Dodgers star played in past two tournaments.

Jordan Romano is out too, but on the flip side, big boost for Canadian rotation as Jameson Taillon is in. Also now in are C Liam Hicks and INF Tyler Black.

– Shi Davidi (@ShiDavidi) January 10, 2026

Of course, Canada won't be outdone at first base, as Josh Naylor, who signed a five-year, $92.5 million contract with the Seattle Mariners this winter, can more than do the job at number three.

But the absence of the Canadiens' best player will hurt, as the position of choice hitter is a natural fit for him.

We'll probably learn a little more about Freeman's withdrawal when he reports to the Los Angeles Dodgers' practice camp. However, we can speculate that his state of health has something to do with this bad news.

Freddie Freeman might not be able to represent Team Canada in the 2026 WBC due to some minor health issues following another extended season with the Dodgers.

Hope Freddie is okay pic.twitter.com/Fb6fuy9vtt

– Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) December 10, 2025

The exact details of Freeman's health issues are unknown, but the 36-year-old did suffer a few injuries this past MLB season, including persistent ankle problems that have lingered since 2024.

Freeman, who hails from California but also holds Canadian citizenship through his parents, represented the Canadiens twice at the 2017 and 2023 World Classics.

The 2026 World Tournament kicks off on March 5, with Canada ranked as the seventh favorite to win the title. Defending champion Japan, 2013 champion Dominican Republic, and the United States are the three heavyweights in the competition.

This content was created with the help of AI.