Puerto Rico captain Lindor confirmed to miss World Baseball Classic due to insurance issues

The ongoing World Baseball Classic (WBC) has repeatedly faced players missing out due to insurance complications. Francisco Lindor of the New York Mets declared today that he cannot play for Puerto Rico in the upcoming March tournament because his contract failed to receive insurance coverage.

Lindor had already stated last April that he would captain Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. However, today he released a statement via the players’ union saying: "Due to undergoing right elbow debridement surgery earlier in the offseason, Francisco Lindor will not be able to represent Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Francisco is deeply disappointed but, because of insurance restrictions related to the Classic, he was not approved to participate. He will fully take part in all team spring training activities moving forward."

Yesterday, Venezuelan media reported that Los Angeles Dodgers player Miguel Rojas also cannot compete due to insurance issues. Rojas confirmed this on social media today: "I am very saddened at this moment, unable to represent my country and wear the flag on my chest. It’s truly regrettable. This time, age is more than just a number."

Previously, Puerto Rican player Carlos Correa and Venezuelan Carlos Narvaez had also announced their absence from this year’s Classic due to their contracts not receiving insurance approval.

According to regulations, any player on a Major League Baseball 40-man roster who wishes to participate must have their contract evaluated and insured by a company jointly designated by the league and the players’ union. If the insurer refuses coverage, the player’s team has the right to deny their participation.