Trayce Thompson, son of former Los Angeles Lakers legend Mychal Thompson and brother of Dallas Mavericks shooting guard Klay Thompson, is part of the British squad.
Trayce spent years in the Dodgers organization, joining the team via a trade with the Chicago White Sox.
Thompson was a former second-round pick who quickly elevated himself to the White Sox system, although he was traded to the Dodgers in a three-team trade.
The outfielder showed some promise, especially in the power department, but back injuries slowed his production, leading to his selection for assignment in 2018, three years after taking over.
Thompson bounced around the league for the next four years before joining the 2022 Dodgers and making the active roster, although a slump led to him being traded to the White Sox for what would be his third stint with the team.
He last played for the Boston Red Sox in 2025, hitting .226/.312/.405 in Triple-A with 13 home runs before opting for free agency.
Thompson’s journey to WBC
In March 2025, Thompson still seemed eager to have an extended stint in the majors.
“I love the game, No. 1,” Thompson said. “Number 2, I feel like I’m still athletically capable, and I still have the energy.
“The battery is still charged to keep going. I still have the passion to reach my potential. I’ve never had a period where I was satisfied. I don’t think I ever will until I’m done playing.”
Thompson is now 34 years old and his baseball stint is likely nearing an end, although he will play at least one more tournament: the 2026 WBC.
Due to his father’s Bahamian nationality, Thompson is eligible for the UK, and following his appearance on the team in 2023, the former Dodger will be in contention for another run.
Along with Thompson, the other notable players are Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Harry Ford. Great Britain don’t have the quality for a deep tournament run, but they will try to upset the apple cart.
#Dodger #Trayce #Thompson #surprising #WBC #team