Roman Anthony is set to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic pending a Saturday physical. Betting impact: his addition strengthens Team USA’s outfield and lineup, likely shortening Team USA’s moneyline and boosting runline/prop value; bettors might favor Team USA to score more runs or back Anthony in player-prop markets if he’s cleared to play.
Roman Anthony Poised to Join Team USA for World Baseball Classic
Roman Anthony is expected to be added to Team USA’s World Baseball Classic roster as long as he passes a physical scheduled for Saturday. The move fills an outfield spot vacated by an injured player and would pair Anthony with MLB elite outfield talent on the American roster.
Roster Opportunity: Replacing an Injured Outfielder
Anthony would replace Arizona outfielder Corbin Carroll, who suffered a broken hamate bone in his right hand. If cleared, Anthony will join an outfield group that includes Aaron Judge, Pete Crow-Armstrong and Byron Buxton.
Where He Could Slot in the Lineup
Anthony’s presence strengthens Team USA’s middle-to-late lineup depth and gives the roster another high-contact, high-OBP option. His addition could influence managerial matchups and offer more flexibility against left- and right-handed pitching in pool play.
Anthony’s Recent Performance and Health
The 21-year-old finished last season third in American League Rookie of the Year voting after hitting .292 with 18 doubles, eight homers and an .859 OPS, totaling 3.1 bWAR in 71 games. His rookie campaign ended when he strained a left oblique on Sept. 2, causing him to miss postseason action. After a healthy offseason, Anthony reported to Red Sox camp early and is considered fully ready entering spring.
Timing, Schedule and Team USA Prep
Team USA opens exhibition play against the San Francisco Giants on March 3. It has not been announced when Anthony would depart Red Sox camp to join Team USA if he clears the physical.
Red Sox Representation at the WBC
In addition to Anthony and reliever Garrett Whitlock, the Red Sox are sending 10 other players to the World Baseball Classic, including all five of their outfielders.
The list includes:
Ceddanne Rafaela (Netherlands)
Jarren Duran (Mexico)
Brayan Bello (Dominican Republic)
Masataka Yoshida (Japan)
Greg Weissert (Italy)
Jovani Moran (Puerto Rico)
Nate Eaton (Great Britain)
Wilyer Abreu (Venezuela)
Willson Contreras (Venezuela)
Ranger Suarez (Venezuela)
Betting Implications
Anthony’s potential addition should modestly improve Team USA’s offensive outlook.
Expect slight movement in moneyline and runline markets, and a rise in interest for player-prop bets involving hits, on-base outcomes or RBI for Anthony if he’s confirmed on the roster.
Bettors should wait for the physical clearance and official roster announcement before placing player-specific wagers.
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Anthony would slot into an outfield that includes the Yankees' Aaron Judge, Twins' Byron Buxton and Cubs' Pete Crow-Armstrong.
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