Retired World Series Champion Ready for One Last Ride In WBC Former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher James Paxton, 37, is set to make his final professional pitching appearance in the World Baseball Classic after retiring from Major League Baseball following an injury-plagued career. Despite missing significant time in his final years with the league, Paxton will represent Team Canada in the tournament, marking the end of his 11-year MLB journey. Paxton’s MLB career was marked by frequent injuries, which limited his playing time in recent seasons. Between 2020 and 2022, he appeared in five games or fewer each year, bouncing between teams including the Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Boston Red Sox. His most notable achievement came in 2024 when he helped the Dodgers secure their first World Series title in franchise history. Though Paxton’s MLB career has concluded, he will return to the mound for Team Canada in the WBC. Mike Vorel of The Seattle Times noted that Paxton’s career was “pocked with injuries,” yet he compiled a 73-41 record with a 3.77 ERA and 1,005 strikeouts across 177 starts. After retiring in 2024, Paxton spent over a year away from the game before accepting his invitation to join Team Canada. Team Canada’s WBC campaign begins with a pool play matchup against Colombia, followed by a game against Panama. While Paxton is not scheduled to start either match, he is expected to pitch in one of the tournament’s later games, providing a fitting finale to his professional career. The decision to include him in the roster underscores his experience and value to the team, even as he prepares to step away from the sport. Paxton’s participation highlights the competitive nature of the WBC and the opportunities it provides for players seeking to make a final impact on the global stage.#world_baseball_classic #james_paxton #los_angeles_dodgers #team_canada #mike_vorel
