Overview
- Trout, 34, told reporters he cannot play for Team USA because insurers would not cover his $35 million 2026 salary.
- Similar denials have sidelined Carlos Correa for Puerto Rico and Jose Altuve for Venezuela, according to reports.
- WBC contracts are insured through National Financial Partners, with prior claims reimbursing clubs such as the Mets for Edwin Díaz’s 2023 injury.
- Trout has missed significant time over the past five seasons, never playing more than 130 games in that span.
- The 2026 World Baseball Classic runs March 5–17 and will feature 20 teams.