Canada has added a major-league arm to its rotation for the upcoming World Baseball Classic.
Although Taillon was born in Lakeland, Fla., his parents are both Canadian and he holds dual citizenship.
“Honored (Honoured?) to play for Baseball Canada in the World Baseball Classic!” Taillon’s post read. “Excited to put on the uniform and represent my family and our Canadian roots!”
The 34-year-old suited up for Canada at the 2013 tournament, allowing one run over 4.0 innings in a 9-4 loss to the USA.
Taillon was unable to pitch in the 2023 WBC because he had just signed a four-year, $68-million contract with the Cubs.
In 2025, the former second-overall pick was solid for Chicago, despite missing time with injury. Taillon carried a 3.68 ERA over 129.2 innings and 23 starts. He was also excellent in the post-season, allowing just two earned runs over 8.0 innings as the Cubs advanced to the National League Division Series before bowing out against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Taillon will join a Canadian pitching staff, which is set to include the likes of Michael Soroka, Cal Quantrill and Matt Brash, per Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi.
Canada will head to San Juan for this year’s WBC for Pool A action. It is grouped with host Puerto Rico, Colombia, Cuba and Panama. The top two teams from pool play will advance to the quarterfinals in Houston.
In preparation for Canada’s tournament-opening game against Colombia on March 7, the team will host training camp in Dunedin, Fla. The Canadian squad will also play a pair of tune-up games in Florida against the Blue Jays and Philadelphia Phillies.