The next World Baseball Classic may be moved to the MLB season and is expected to debut in 2029 or 2030.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred stated in an interview with the Associated Press today that the next World Baseball Classic could be held in 2029 or 2030 and might be shifted to mid-season, potentially allowing teams to be less restrictive about their players participating.

Since its establishment in 2006, the Classic has always been held during MLB spring training. The Classic imposes pitch count limits for pitchers, and MLB teams can request stricter restrictions or even refuse to allow their players to participate.

Manfred noted in the interview: "As baseball continues to evolve, we have discussed the possibility of holding the event during the season. If we decide to seriously pursue a mid-season schedule, the Classic would be an ideal opportunity."

If the Classic is moved to the MLB season, it could reduce situations where star players decline to participate or are restricted by their teams. In the current Classic, two-time AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal reached an agreement with his team, the Detroit Tigers, to play only one game.

Additionally, because USA manager Mark DeRosa made a commitment to the San Diego Padres, "closer" Mason Miller would only pitch in situations where a save opportunity was likely, thus limiting his appearances.

DeRosa said: "If the event is moved to the season, I believe no one would decline to participate anymore."