HOUSTON – In a roster adjustment ahead of their highly anticipated semifinal matchup against the Dominican Republic, Team USA has added Toronto Blue Jays reliever Jeff Hoffman to their roster for the World Baseball Classic. The move comes after Clayton Kershaw, who surprisingly came out of retirement to join the team, was removed from the active roster, though he will remain with the team throughout the tournament.
The decision to replace Kershaw with Hoffman was made following Team USA’s 5-3 quarterfinal victory over Canada on Friday night. The team is now focused on Sunday’s game, where they will face a formidable Dominican Republic squad. This tournament has already showcased some incredible baseball, and the addition of Hoffman provides manager Mark DeRosa with another strong arm in the bullpen as they pursue a championship.
Hoffman’s Recent Performance
Jeff Hoffman, 33, pitched for the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2025 season, appearing in 71 games and posting a 9-7 record with a 4.37 ERA. He recorded 84 strikeouts and 33 saves during the regular season, demonstrating his reliability as a closer. Sportsnet reports that Hoffman continued to excel in the postseason, achieving a 1.46 ERA across 12.1 innings with 18 strikeouts and two saves. However, he did allow a game-tying home run to Miguel Rojas of the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 7 of the World Series, a game the Blue Jays ultimately lost in extra innings.
This will be Hoffman’s first appearance in the World Baseball Classic, adding a fresh perspective to the American team. His experience closing games for the Blue Jays, combined with his postseason performance, makes him a valuable addition to the bullpen. The team is hoping he can provide crucial innings as they navigate the pressure of the tournament’s later stages.
Kershaw’s Unexpected Role
Clayton Kershaw’s participation in the World Baseball Classic was already a notable story, given his retirement at the end of the 2025 MLB season after an 18-year career. ESPN detailed that the three-time National League Cy Young Award winner came out of retirement specifically to represent Team USA. Despite his commitment, Kershaw did not pitch in any of the team’s first five games of the WBC. He will remain with the team in a supportive role, offering his experience and leadership to the younger players.
The decision to remove Kershaw from the active roster was likely made to prioritize players who are currently game-ready. While his presence and experience are valued, his lack of recent pitching appearances made him a less viable option for the crucial semifinal game. The team is prioritizing players who can contribute immediately to their pursuit of a championship.
USA Baseball and the World Baseball Classic
Since 1978, USA Baseball has served as the national governing body for amateur baseball in the United States. The World Baseball Classic provides a platform for the nation’s best players to compete against international talent, fostering a sense of national pride and promoting the growth of the sport. The tournament has become a premier event in the baseball calendar, attracting top players from MLB and leagues around the world.
Team USA will necessitate a strong performance from Hoffman and the rest of their roster to overcome the Dominican Republic, a team known for its powerful offense and talented pitching staff. The semifinal game promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams vying for a spot in the World Baseball Classic championship game.
The outcome of Sunday’s game will significantly impact the trajectory of both teams in the tournament. Fans can expect a high-stakes battle as Team USA looks to advance to the championship and compete for the title. The addition of Jeff Hoffman provides a boost to their bullpen, but the Dominican Republic will undoubtedly present a formidable challenge.
What comes next for Team USA hinges on their performance against the Dominican Republic. A win would propel them to the championship game, while a loss would end their run in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The team’s ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be crucial as they navigate the final stages of the tournament. Share your thoughts on this roster change and Team USA’s chances in the comments below!
