One MLB Player Already Guaranteed World Series Ring

Jake Woodford, a 29-year-old pitcher, began his MLB career with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2020. Last season, Woodford reported to spring training with the Tampa Bay Rays but was quickly traded to the Milwaukee Brewers on March 24 despite posting an impressive 1.23 ERA in Grapefruit League play. However, his time in Milwaukee was short-lived.

Woodford made only 16 appearances, allowing 18 runs in 23.1 innings, resulting in a 6.94 ERA. After being designated for assignment on June 5, he headed to the Brewers' Triple-A affiliate, where he spent a month before being released. Woodford then spent a week with the Chicago Cubs before being DFA'd. After less than two months with the Cubs' Triple-A squad, he was designated for assignment again.

Woodford signed a minor league contract with the Rays, played one game, and was eventually designated for assignment yet again. As of September 30, Woodford has been a free agent. Despite his inconsistent performance throughout the season, Woodford is the only player guaranteed to receive a World Series ring. The tradition ensures that every player who participated in a season that ends in a World Series appearance will receive a ring, with the winners receiving more elaborate jewelry.

This includes all 56 men who played for the Rays and all 53 for the Brewers, whether they had a locker in the clubhouse or not. As the only man to have played for both pennant-winning teams in 2026, Woodford is well-positioned for this unique achievement. Although never a star player, Woodford has established himself as a journeyman, having pitched for seven teams at the highest level since 2023.

He might not participate in a World Series parade, but he'll always have the 2026 World Series ring and a story to share with his children.