Will Cresswell is the first Washington State Cougar to compete in the World Baseball Classic. 

The former WSU catcher spent four years in Pullman before being drafted in the 22nd round of the 2026 MLB draft by the Toronto Blue Jays. Around a month ago, he was selected to join Team Great Britain in the upcoming WBC, which begins Thursday. 

Cresswell said the recruiting process was smooth. 

“So the manager Brad Marcelino, he called me a couple weeks ago and asked me if I wanted to play, be a part of the team,” said Cresswell. “He pretty much, like, picked me to be a part of the roster.”

Cresswell’s connection to Great Britain comes from his dad, who was born in England. Cresswell spent his whole life in Washington; he was born in Tacoma, grew up in Auburn, and played college baseball in Pullman. 

The former Coug said he valued his time at WSU. 

“My time at Washington State was great,” said Cresswell. “I had a slow start… but you know, that’s what college is expected… I got better as the years went on.” 

Bobby Altworth, WSU’s baseball media director, said he enjoyed working with Cresswell and watching him improve throughout the years. 

“You could see the development on and off the field,” said Altworth. “I’m happy for Cresswell… what this means for him, and for his family.” 

Altworth said his favorite memory of Cresswell at WSU was a massive home run he launched against UC San Diego. 

“Cresswell announced his presence, really arrived, in I think it was his junior year,” said Altworth. “He hit one of the longest home runs you’ve ever seen. And the whole ballpark kind of stopped and watched and waited for it to land.” 

With the tournament beginning soon, Cresswell said he is feeling good, and ready to go. 

“I’m feeling great… we’ve got live AB’s in games going on,” said Cresswell. “I’m excited to go play.”