Oct 10, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; (Editors note: Alternate crop) Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) throws against the Seattle Mariners during the third inning during game five of the ALDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at T-Mobile Park.

The 2026 World Baseball Classic is finally getting the arms it deserves. For the first time, Team USA is rolling out a rotation headlined by back‑to‑back Cy Young winners, while Japan, the Dominican Republic,

A breakout performance from a starting pitcher at the back of the rotation or a high-leverage arm in the bullpen can completely transform a team's pitching staff, without any outside additions required.