Édouard Julien: the trade affects his chances of being in the World Baseball Classic

Yesterday afternoon, we learned that Édouard Julien had been traded. The Québécois, who had been with the Twins since the beginning of his career, headed to Colorado to join the Rockies.

He seemed to be caught in a logjam at first base in Minnesota, and now he will have the chance to make a fresh start in a hitter-friendly environment.

Following the trade, Julien spoke briefly to the media to discuss what lies ahead. Among other things, the question of the World Baseball Classic was raised… and what we understand is that the trade changes the situation in that regard.

The Québécois explained that the Rockies would like him to be at the club's camp for the entire spring. The World Baseball Classic will therefore create a scheduling conflict.

Julien hasn't ruled out representing Canada, but at this point, there is uncertainty.

Julien is not sure he will go to the World Baseball Classic because Colorado wants him to be at camp for the entire spring. The Rockies will use him at first and second base!

— Jeremy Filosa (@JeremyFilosa) January 28, 2026

Given that Julien has to prove himself within his new organization, it would make sense for him to skip this year's tournament. But on the other hand, we know that he really impressed in 2023… and maybe that could convince the Rockies to let him go to the tournament.

He came out of the tournament with a lot of confidence, which helped him have a great 2023 season.

It should be noted that, according to Julien, the Rockies intend to use him at first and second base. That's where he spent most of his time in Minnesota, and they clearly want to maintain continuity at that level.

And the Québécois is happy to be arriving in a hitter-friendly environment. That's understandable.

We'll see what the next few weeks hold for Julien, but he may be forced to give up his plans to take part in the World Baseball Classic. Stay tuned.

This content was created with the help of AI.