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Miller Replaces Poteet on Team USA Roster

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, April 3rd 2026 at 2:40 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Miami, FL - April 3rd, 2026 - The United States national baseball team has announced a late roster change for the ongoing World Baseball Classic, with San Diego Padres pitching prospect Mason Miller stepping in to replace Cody Poteet, who has withdrawn due to a forearm strain. This addition further solidifies a Team USA roster already brimming with Major League talent, and crucially, highlights the strength of the Padres' player development system.

The timing of Poteet's injury, just as the tournament is heating up, presented a challenge for the US coaching staff. They needed a pitcher capable of stepping into a high-leverage role, and in Miller, they've found a promising arm with electric stuff. The 23-year-old was a first-round pick (26th overall) in the 2023 MLB draft, quickly ascending through the Padres' minor league system and reaching Triple-A. While he hasn't yet seen extensive time in the Majors, his velocity and potential are undeniable, earning him comparisons to some of the game's elite closers.

Miller's Arsenal: A Potential Weapon for Team USA

Scouts consistently rave about Miller's fastball, which routinely hits the upper 90s and has been clocked as high as 101 mph. But it's not just velocity; Miller also features a devastating slider, providing him with a true out-pitch. His developing changeup, while still a work in progress, adds another dimension to his repertoire. This combination of speed and movement, if harnessed correctly, could make him a key contributor to Team USA's bullpen down the stretch.

"We were disappointed to lose Cody, but we have full confidence in Mason," said Team USA manager John Tortora in a press conference this morning. "He's a highly-touted prospect for a reason. His velocity is exceptional, and he's not afraid of the moment. We see him as a potential future closer, and this tournament will be a fantastic opportunity for him to showcase his talent on an international stage."

Padres' Global Impact: A League of Their Own

Miller isn't the only Padre representing his nation in this year's WBC. San Diego boasts an impressive contingent of international stars, making them one of the most globally represented teams in Major League Baseball. The Padres' influence on the tournament is substantial, showcasing the organization's commitment to scouting and developing talent from around the world.

Here's a rundown of the Padres players participating in the 2026 World Baseball Classic:

• Fernando Tatis Jr. - Dominican Republic: The electrifying outfielder is a cornerstone of the Dominican Republic's lineup, expected to lead their offensive charge. After a resurgent 2025 season, Tatis is arguably the most dangerous hitter in the tournament.
• Ha-Seong Kim - South Korea: Kim has established himself as a premier defensive shortstop and a steady offensive contributor for the Padres. He's a veteran leader for South Korea, providing both stability and athleticism.
• Yu Darvish - Japan: The veteran right-hander is a key figure in Japan's rotation, bringing a wealth of experience and a refined pitching arsenal. Darvish is looking to add to his already impressive international resume.
• Manny Machado - Venezuela: Machado, a perennial All-Star, is the heart and soul of the Venezuelan lineup. His power and presence are crucial to Venezuela's hopes of making a deep run.
• Trent Grisham - United States: Grisham's defensive prowess in center field and developing offensive skills make him a valuable asset to Team USA. He provides crucial defensive stability and has shown flashes of offensive brilliance.

The sheer number of Padres players participating underscores the team's success in attracting and cultivating international talent. It also creates a unique dynamic within the clubhouse, fostering a sense of camaraderie and competition that could translate into success both in the WBC and back in the regular season.

Looking Ahead

Team USA is considered one of the favorites in the WBC, and Miller's addition, despite the unfortunate circumstances of Poteet's injury, strengthens their already formidable pitching staff. The tournament is providing valuable experience for young players like Miller, who could become key contributors to the Padres' future success. With a roster packed with established stars and promising prospects, Team USA, powered by the Padres' pipeline, is poised to make a serious run at the championship title.