Get ready for a thrilling showdown at the World Baseball Classic, because Team Israel just unveiled its star-studded lineup, and it’s packed with surprises! Among the new faces is a Minnesota Twins pitcher whose family ties to Israel are as intriguing as they are influential—his father-in-law is none other than an Israeli-American pharmaceutical titan and political powerhouse. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: this isn’t just about baseball; it’s about identity, heritage, and the global reach of the sport.
With the sixth edition of this international tournament kicking off in just one month, all 20 competing nations have locked in their 30-player rosters. Team Israel, fresh off a thrilling 2023 victory that secured their spot (think nail-biting comebacks and underdog triumphs), dropped their lineup on Thursday, and it’s a mix of MLB heavyweights and fresh talent. While baseball’s biggest Jewish star, Alex Bregman of the Chicago Cubs, is suiting up for Team USA, Israel’s roster is no slouch. San Francisco Giants outfielder Harrison Bader headlines the squad, joined by MLB veterans Tommy Kahnle and Matt Bowman, whose connections to Israel are as compelling as their fastballs.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Under WBC rules, players eligible for citizenship—not actual citizens—can represent a country. For Israel, that means American Jews (and sometimes their spouses) who qualify under the Law of Return. Take Matt Bowman, for instance. His wife, Eve Levin, is a legal powerhouse who helped secure a historic $787.5 million judgment against Fox News last year. Her father, Jeremy Levin, is a former CEO of Teva Pharmaceuticals and a vocal advocate for democracy in Israel and the U.S. It’s a web of connections that raises the question: Does heritage or nationality truly define a team’s identity? Let’s discuss in the comments!
Bowman’s journey is equally captivating. A Princeton alum who met his wife on campus, he’s a minor league stalwart with 16 MLB games under his belt. His addition to the Twins marks his third stint with the club, showcasing the resilience that defines his career.
Leading the charge for Team Israel is Brad Ausmus, the New York Yankees bench coach who narrowly missed the WBC with Israel in 2013. Joining him are MLB legends Kevin Youkilis, Mark Loretta, and Jason Marquis, rounding out a coaching staff that’s as seasoned as it gets. Notably absent this year is Texas Rangers slugger Joc Pederson, whose absence leaves big shoes to fill.
Simon Rosenbaum, Team Israel’s general manager and a former player, calls roster-building a ‘rollercoaster ride.’ ‘We’re thrilled with the team we’ve assembled,’ he said. ‘The buzz among players about their past experiences with us has been incredible. We’re ready to compete in a tough pool and make our fans proud.’
And this is the part most people miss: This isn’t just a team; it’s a testament to the global Jewish community’s passion for baseball. From Bowman’s family ties to Bader’s star power, every player brings a unique story to the field. Will it be enough to make waves in Pool D? Only time will tell.
Here’s the full roster (returning players marked with an asterisk):
Pitchers: Charlie Beilenson, Josh Blum, Matt Bowman, Harrison Cohen, Daniel Federman, Jordan Geber, Tommy Kahnle, Rob Kaminsky, Dean Kremer, Max Lazar, Carlos Lequerica, Josh Mallitz, Eli Morgan, Ryan Prager, Ben Simon, Robert Stock, Zack Weiss*
Infielders: Cole Carigg, Jake Gelof, Spencer Horwitz, Assaf Lowengart, Noah Mendlinger, Matt Mervis, Benjamin Rosengard, C.J. Stubbs, Garrett Stubbs
Outfielders: Harrison Bader, Troy Johnston, Zach Levenson, RJ Schreck
Catch Team Israel in action in Miami’s Pool D, starting with exhibition games against the Marlins and Mets. Their first-round schedule (all times ET):
- March 7 (7 p.m.): Israel vs. Venezuela
- March 8 (7 p.m.): Nicaragua vs. Israel
- March 9 (12 p.m.): Dominican Republic vs. Israel
- March 10 (7 p.m.): Israel vs. Netherlands
So, what’s your take? Does Team Israel’s unique roster makeup give them an edge, or is it a recipe for controversy? Share your thoughts below—let’s spark a debate!
