Get ready for some thrilling baseball action as Canada steps up to the plate in the WBSC Copa América, but here’s where it gets exciting: this tournament isn’t just about pride—it’s a gateway to the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima, with four coveted berths up for grabs. On November 4, 2025, Baseball Canada unveiled its roster for the upcoming competition, set to take place in La Chorrera, Panama, from November 13–17. This announcement marks a pivotal moment for Canadian baseball, blending seasoned veterans with fresh talent ready to make waves on the international stage.
The Copa América will feature 12 nations divided into two groups, all vying for supremacy in Panama. Canada finds itself in Group B, alongside powerhouse teams like host nation Panama, Puerto Rico, Colombia, Brazil, and Argentina. Meanwhile, Group A boasts equally formidable opponents, including Cuba, Curaçao, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. And this is the part most people miss: all Group B games will be hosted at the iconic Estadio Mariano Rivera, a venue named after one of baseball’s all-time greats, adding an extra layer of prestige to the tournament.
Leading the charge for Canada is none other than Ernie Whitt, who will be managing the national team for the 22nd time in his illustrious career. Whitt’s roster is a fascinating mix of familiarity and novelty. The veteran lineup includes household names like Ben Abram, Phillippe Aumont, and Scott Mathieson, all of whom have proudly represented Canada on the international stage before. But here’s where it gets controversial: while experience is invaluable, the inclusion of several newcomers like Harley Gollert, Braeden Allemann, and Christian Young raises questions about how this blend of old and new will perform under pressure.
Among the newcomers, players like Evan Grills, Nate Ochoa, and T.J. Schofield-Sam are making their Senior National Team debuts after shining in the Junior National Team. Others, such as Bryce Arnold, David Mendham, and Mathieu Vallée, are stepping onto the national stage for the very first time. This infusion of fresh talent isn’t just about filling spots—it’s a strategic move to build a team capable of competing at the highest levels for years to come.
Behind the scenes, Whitt will be supported by a coaching staff with decades of international experience, including Denis Boucher, Tim Leiper, Greg Hamilton, and Chris Begg. Their collective expertise will be crucial in navigating the challenges of the tournament and preparing the team for their opening game against Panama on November 13.
Before heading to Panama, the national team will fine-tune their skills at a three-day training camp in Dunedin, Florida, hosted at the Toronto Blue Jays Player Development Complex from November 7–10. This preparation could be the difference between a good showing and a historic performance.
As Canada gears up for this high-stakes tournament, one can’t help but wonder: Can this blend of veterans and newcomers rise to the occasion and secure a spot in the 2027 Pan American Games? And more controversially, is Canada’s strategy of mixing experience with youth a recipe for success, or could it lead to growing pains on the international stage? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
For those eager to dive deeper, check out the full roster here and the tournament schedule here. Let the games begin!
