Javier Báez Suspended from 2026 WBC for Failed Marijuana Test

Detroit Tigers All-Star Javier Báez has been ruled ineligible to play for Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic due to a two-year suspension for a failed marijuana drug test during the 2023 tournament. The suspension, under World Baseball Softball Confederation rules, runs from April 26, 2024, to April 26, 2026, encompassing the 2026 WBC (March 5-17). Despite MLB allowing marijuana use since 2020, WBSC prohibits it, and efforts by MLB and MLBPA to restore his eligibility were unsuccessful. Báez, 33, was not suspended by MLB and had a resurgent 2025 season, hitting .257/.282/.398 with 12 homers and 57 RBI.