The Williamsport Crosscutters are making a global impact! Eight former players from this iconic team will represent their nations in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic, a testament to the team's talent development and international reach.
But who are these players, and what's their story? Let's dive into the details:
Tim Kennelly (Australia): Hailing from Perth, Kennelly joined the Crosscutters in 2007 after signing with the Phillies. He had a solid season, but his journey took a twist after being released in 2013. He briefly joined the Rangers, then returned to the Australian Baseball League, where he's been a staple for the Perth Heat.
Mitch Edwards (Australia): Signed by the Phillies in 2018, Edwards had a brief stint with the Crosscutters in 2019. After his release in 2021, he returned to Australia, now playing for the Adelaide Giants.
Seranthony Domínguez (Dominican Republic): A 2016 Crosscutter, Domínguez was signed by the Phillies as an international free agent. He made his MLB debut in 2018 and had a successful run until being traded to the Orioles and later the Blue Jays. He competed in the 2025 World Series and is now with the Chicago White Sox.
Johan Rojas (Dominican Republic): Another 2019 Crosscutter, Rojas signed with the Phillies in 2018. He made his MLB debut in 2023 and has been splitting time between Philadelphia and the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs.
Vance Worley (Great Britain): With a unique eligibility story, Worley competed for Great Britain due to his mother's nationality. He had a brief but impressive stint with the Crosscutters in 2008, leading to an eight-year MLB career with various teams.
Yacksel Ríos (Puerto Rico): A 2013 Crosscutter, Ríos was drafted by the Phillies in 2011. He made his MLB debut in 2017 and spent six seasons in the majors. He's currently working his way back, spending time with the Mets and now signed with the Chicago Cubs for the 2026 season.
Eduardo Rivera (Puerto Rico): Rivera made history as the first Crosscutter to be drafted into the MLB, joining the Oakland Athletics in 2021. After his release, he signed with the Boston Red Sox and is now part of their Double-A team.
Ranger Suárez (Venezuela): A standout in 2016, Suárez was signed by the Phillies as an international free agent. He had a remarkable no-hitter game and was named to the All-Star team. After eight seasons with the Phillies, he's now with the Boston Red Sox.
And here's where it gets exciting! These former Crosscutters will compete in iconic venues like the Tokyo Dome, Hiram Bithorn Stadium, Daikin Park, and loanDepot Park. The World Baseball Classic is a celebration of baseball's global reach, and these players are living proof of that.
But what do you think? Are you surprised by the international impact of the Williamsport Crosscutters? Do you think these players will shine on the world stage? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's keep the conversation going!
