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MLB

Jose Altuve Not Playing for Team Venezuela in 2026 World Baseball Classic

Vince Pensabene photo
By Vince Pensabene · 2 min read
Houston Astros, Jose Altuve, MLB, American League Wild Card Series
Sep 22, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) looks up after a play during the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Jose Altuve has been one of the top players in Major League Baseball, as the former AL MVP and World Series Champion has stepped up throughout his career. With players announcing they will be competing in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, there has been a question of whether or not he will join Team USA this year.

We have finally gotten an answer as to if he will be on the roster, so let’s take a look at what it is and why.

Jose Altuve is Not Playing for Team Venezuela in 2026 World Baseball Classic

Houston Astros, Jose Altuve
Sep 24, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) throws the ball to first to record an out against the Athletics in the seventh inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Image

Jose Altuve is going to be one of the stars who will not be participating in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, per MLB’s Brian McTaggart. However, this is not a decision he made, as the Houston Astros have requested that he does not participate.

Back on Saturday, Altuve was asked about potentially playing and made it known it was not going to be up to him, despite wanting to play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic:

“I don’t kow what’s going on behind the scenes, seems this year is not up to me. Hopefully everything clears up and I’ll be able to go.”

Altuve will be remaining with the Astros during Spring Training now as he looks to get back on track offensively after his worst season at the plate since 2020. He played 155 games and finished wiht a .771 OPS with 26 home runs, 77 RBI, and 80 runs scored. Altuve also would play left field during the season before moving back to second base.

Jose Altuve not playing in the World Baseball Classic could be a major blow for Team Venezuela, as only catcher Salvador Perez has been announced for the team’s roster at this point.

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