Harper will play in WBC if other U.S. stars join

Bryce Harper is ready to represent the United States at the 2017 World Baseball Classic - but only if he has some help.

The superstar said Thursday he'll only sign up to play in the tournament if other American stars join him. In other words, if Harper feels the U.S. roster has a legitimate chance to win, then he's in.

"I think when you really look at it, if the guys play that you really want to play with, then definitely I'll play. But if we're not going to have the opportunity to win, then I don't want to play," Harper told Chase Hughes of CSN Mid-Atlantic. "If we do that, then I'm definitely in. If not, I probably won't do it."

USA Baseball is likely hoping to secure Harper a little sooner than that, as his presence alone would be a major boost to the country's chances. Since the tournament began in 2006, the Americans have had little success, only reaching the semifinal round once, and have consistently failed to convince many high-profile American players to join the ranks.

Harper's quickly becoming the face of the sport, though, and there's a chance his words could help spur his peers to play in March.

"I really just think if we have the support of all the players in the big leagues on the American side, then I'll definitely play," Harper said.

If he does play in the tournament, the 23-year-old already knows who he wants on his side.

"Hopefully we get some guys like Thor (Noah Syndergaard) in New York and guys like that," he said.