Cleveland Sports Forum

Global phenomenon: Classic a marquee event
Now in its fourth iteration, baseball's pre-eminent global tourney delivers for fans

Every four years, sports fans are reminded of how the forces of nationalism dominate our beloved pastimes. Soccer fans -- or football, depending on your reference point -- pack stadiums, pubs or anywhere with a large TV to raucously cheer for their respective countries during the World Cup. Across the world, medal counts and broken records dominate the conversation for more than two weeks as the Olympic Games play out. And for the World Baseball Classic, the mood is largely the same.

Fans from the sport's traditional powerhouses, like Japan and the Dominican Republic, pack venues across the globe in a show of support for their nations' stars. But even the most unlikely participants, like the Netherlands and Australia, revel in the experience as fans rally behind them, decked out in their countries' colors and rooting hard for an upset.

At a late-September Classic qualifier, the last of four play-in rounds in 2016, waves crashed and seagulls squawked along the shores of Coney Island as teams from Brazil, Great Britain, Israel and Pakistan lined the baselines at MCU Park, home of the Brooklyn Cyclones, the Mets' Class A Short-Season affiliate. And although Team Pakistan was, without a doubt, the underdog, fans unfurled a giant Pakistani flag in the stands and chants of "Pak-i-stan" echoed throughout the stadium as the bright lights of Coney Island's iconic amusement park flashed in the backdrop, highlighting the unique beauty of the Classic.

"The idea of this tournament is to globalize the sport of baseball," said Hall of Famer Barry Larkin, who managed Team Brazil in the 2013 World Baseball Classic and that Brooklyn qualifier, and served as Team USA's bench coach in '09. "It's definitely evident that good ball is played all around the world."

From seasoned Major Leaguers to members of previously unheard-of national baseball federations, players of all shapes, sizes and abilities compete against one another during the Classic, MLB's biggest global event. And it's the opportunity to represent their country -- not their franchise -- that inspires every participant.
"This was a great opportunity to show my work, but first and foremost, I was fighting for my country, and I do that with a lot of pride," Bo Takahashi, a 20-year-old Brazil-born pitcher currently in the D-backs' farm system, said during the Brooklyn qualifier.

"I try to approach every opportunity I get with as much passion as I can," right-handed pitcher Jason Marquis, a 15-year MLB veteran and one of numerous American players of Jewish heritage on Team Israel's roster, said during the September play-in round, when Team Israel earned a spot in the '17 tournament. "It was definitely our goal to win this qualifier and get to the main event."

And although it did not advance, the passionate Pakistani squad made great strides in its first true test on the international stage.

"In Pakistan, we don't have a baseball field; we have a soccer ground," manager Syed Fakhar Ali Shah said after his team's first game. "The bounce of the ball is totally different. Every match, every ball, my players are learning."

Leading up to this year's tournament -- the fourth since the World Baseball Classic's 2006 inception -- MLB held three other qualifiers to determine the 16 teams that would compete in the 2017 Classic. In February 2016, Australia swept the Sydney qualifier with the help of some standout offense from then-Twins farmhands James Beresford and Logan Wade. Teams from Colombia and Mexico also advanced in their respective qualifiers last March.

"I was impressed overall. You can see that the game is developing in their countries," said Larkin, a Cincinnati native and Reds infielder for nearly two decades, who has been a fixture on the international baseball scene for some time.

But Larkin is far from the only player with a Hall of Fame pedigree to take advantage of the chance to participate in the World Baseball Classic. Legendary Padres closer Trevor Hoffman -- who narrowly missed out on Hall of Fame election this year -- was the bullpen coach for Great Britain during its qualifier, while his former Padres teammate, Steve Finley, served on Larkin's staff, along with recently retired MLB pitcher LaTroy Hawkins. Storied skipper Jim Leyland is at the helm of Team USA in 2017.

Even Ken Griffey Jr., who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2016, played in the inaugural tournament a decade ago.

"For two weeks, I really enjoyed being a part of it," said Griffey, who was named to the All-World Baseball Classic Team, although Team USA went 1-2 in pool play. "Anything can happen on any given day. If you're consistent and make the plays, you can beat anybody."
In 2006, the Classic's inaugural year, 16 teams from five continents vied for a true world title at San Diego's Petco Park and Japan's Tokyo Dome, among other host sites. Japan triumphed over Cuba while riding the performance of soon-to-be Major Leaguer Daisuke Matsuzaka, who went 3-0. In '09, the Netherlands twice upset the Dominican Republic at Puerto Rico's Hiram Bithorn Stadium, but Japan ultimately won again, this time over South Korea as Ichiro Suzuki knocked the game-winning single. Four years later, Japan was absent from the finals as Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic battled for the 2013 championship at San Francisco's AT&T Park. The D.R. team had dominated the entire tournament, going 8-0 thanks to the hot bat of tournament MVP Robinson Cano, and to earn the country its first title.

Even more than the results, players revel in the atmosphere. A Classic-record 54,846 fans packed Dodger Stadium for the 2009 championship, and through the first three tournaments, more than 2.5 million fans have turned out to watch baseball's best represent their native and ancestral countries.

"As long as there are fans there, that's what makes it fun for the players," said Derek Jeter, who played alongside Griffey in the 2006 tournament. "Sometimes they'll be for you, sometimes against you, but I think it makes a good atmosphere."

"I think the Classic is great for baseball," said Carlos Beltran, who represented Puerto Rico in the first three tournaments and now is one of just six MLB players participating in his fourth Classic.

"As a player, you play for your country, and no one wants to lose. So every player that has the opportunity to play in a [meaningful] game, we're always going to give what we have."
Which gives fans all the more reason to hold on to the edge of their seats this March. After all, baseball begins early this year, and fans should have no complaints about that.

The Puerto Rican union begins on the way to the Classic

Finally Carlos Correa is seen for the first time united with the veteran leaders of the team.

The strength is in the joining and in chemistry to be successful.

Aware of that, players from the Puerto Rico team for the World Baseball Classic have started looking this spring to create that chemistry and union to be able to run successfully in the tournament that starts next Monday, March 6, although the squad from Puerto Rico will debut in the tournament on Friday, March 10th.

According to a photo shared in Instagram by Alex Cora, the general manager of the boricuas, Carlos Beltrán, Carlos Correa and Yadier Molina shared in a dinner last night. The meeting was good because Correa is finally seen for the first time together with the veteran leaders of the team.

In short, the process of unifying ideals has already begun. So when the team reports on Tuesday from their training center in Arizona a big step is gained.

Anybody follow the money for the WBC? Who profits? Are the players paid? Where does the ticket money and TV rights go?

Who cares?

Is it over yet?

Free rein to the imagination and set up an 'Ideal Team' for Puerto Rico for the World Baseball Classic.

A combination of Francisco Lindor and Roberto Alomar in the middle infield.

A lineup of Roberto Clemente, Orlando 'Peruchín' Cepeda, Carlos Delgado and Juan 'Igor' González in the middle.

Pitchers like John Candelaria, Juan 'Terín' Pizarro, Eduardo Figueroa, Javier Vázquez, Roberto Hernández, and young Edwin Díaz.

That sounds like a loaded lineup.

Facing the next World Baseball Classic, a team of reporters completed an exercise to create the 'Ideal Historical Team' from Puerto Rico for this World Cup. 28 players were selected; 14 position players and 14 pitchers.

We established that all players with experience in the Major Leagues would be considered. Although he has just two seasons, Lindor was selected to represent this star studded lineup being the only Gold Glove winner among the Puerto Rican shortstops He also adds a Silver Bat. Lindor, of the Cleveland Indians, was chosen over Carlos Correa, Dickie Thon and Tony Valentin. Seeing a combination of Lindor with Alomar would have been a dream.

Correa, meanwhile, was left off of the team by one vote. Mike Lowell was included in the starting team as third baseman and Carlos Baerga as a 'utility'.

Peruchín Cepeda and Iván Rodríguez were selected in order for first base and catcher, respectively. Meanwhile, Yadier Molina was the alternate catcher with Delgado and Edgar Martinez combining as designated hitters. Delgado figures in as the designated hitter in a close vote with Martinez. The fact that the aguadillano is the home run leader among the Puerto Ricans tilted the balance toward him.

The legendary Roberto Clemente, Carlos Beltrán, and Igor González were selected for the outfield with Bernie Williams and Rubén 'El Indio' Sierra as the substitutes, leaving out Jose 'Cheo' Cruz and Angel Pagan.

The selection of the 14 pitchers was also divided in some cases. Rubén Gómez, Omar Olivares, Luis 'Mambo' De Leon, Michael Pérez, Juan Agosto, and Ramón 'Mon' Hernández were excluded from the list.

Closer Edwin Diaz was included starting his career with 88 strikeouts in 51.2 innings with the Seattle Mariners last season.

Candelaria, Figueroa, Vázquez, Roberto and Guillermo Hernández, and Juan Carlos Romero, equally, were well favored in the voting.

Candelaria, the leader of victories among Puerto Ricans in history, was chosen to be the ace of the team over Pizarro, Figueroa and Vázquez.

Finally, Edwin Rodriguez was chosen as the manager of the team.

Team Alignment:

1-Roberto Alomar - 2B
2-Carlos Beltrán - CF
3-Roberto Clemente - RF
4-Orlando 'Peruchín' Cepeda - 1B
5-Carlos Delgado - DH
6-Juan 'Igor' Gonzalez - LF
7- Mike Lowell - 3B
8- Iván Rodríguez - C
9-Francisco Lindor - SS

Starting pitcher - John Candelaria (Ace)

Catcher - Iván Rodríguez

Member of the Hall of Fame; 13 Gold Gloves; 14 Star Games; 7 Silver Bates; And Most Valuable of Americana 1999.
Substitute Catcher - Yadier Molina 8 Gold Gloves; 7 All Star Games; And 1 Silver Bat.

Infield

First base - Orlando 'Peruchín' Cepeda
Member of the Hall of Fame; 11 Star Games; Rookie of the Year 1958; And Most Valuable of the National 1967.

Second base - Roberto Alomar

Member of the Hall of Fame; 12 All Star Games; 10 Gold Gloves; And 4 Silver Bats.

Shortstop - Francisco Lindor

1 Gold Glove (the first in history for a Puerto Rican shortstop); 1 All-Star Game; And 1 Silver Bat.

Third Base - Mike Lowell

4 Star Games; 1 Gold Glove; 1 Silver Bead; And Most Valuable in the 2007 World Series.

Infield Alternates

Carlos Delgado

2 All Star Games; 3 Silver Bats; And 473 home runs (leader among the Puerto Ricans).

Edgar Martínez

7 All Star Games; 2 Bateo titles in the Americana; 5 Silver Bates; And 5 Awards to the Best Designated Batsman (award that now bears his name in the Americana).

Carlos Baerga

3 Star Games and 2 Silver Bats.

Outfielders

Centerfield -Carlos Beltrán

9 All Star Games; 3 Gold Gloves; 2 Silver Bats; Rookie of the Year 1999; Leader of annotated and towed between the Puerto Ricans with 1,522 and 1,536, respectively.

Left fielder - Juan 'Igor' González

6 Bates de Plata; 3 All Star Games; 2 times Most Valuable of Americana 1996 and 1998; And 434 home runs (the second largest among Puerto Ricans)

Right fielder - Roberto Clemente

15 Star Games; 14 Silver Gloves; 4 Titles of Batting in the National; Most Valuable in the National 1966; Most Valuable in the 1971 World Series; And 3,000 hits (leader among Puerto Ricans in history).

Alternate Outfielder

Bernie Williams

5 Star Games; 4 Gold Gloves; 1 Silver Bead; And 1 Bateo Title 1998.

Rubén 'El Indio' Sierra

4 All Star Games; 1 Silver Bead

List of 14 pitchers

1-John Candelaria
2-Eduardo Figueroa
3-Javier Vázquez
4-Joel Piñeiro
5- 'Chevel' Guzmán
6- Jaime Navarro
7-Juan 'Terín' Pizarro
8-Guillermo Hernández
9- Luis 'Tite' Arroyo
10-Juan Carlos Romero
11 -Roberto Hernández
12-Javier López
13-Ricky Bones
14-Edwin Díaz

The practice agenda for team Puerto Rico for the World Classic

The first exhibition game is scheduled for Wednesday, March 8th against the San Francisco Giants.

A practice session and two exhibition games are on the agenda for the National Team March 7-9 at the Salt River Fields Training Complex located in Arizona in preparation for the fourth edition of the World Baseball Classic.

The national team will have one game against the Giants of San Francisco and another against the Colorado Rockies.

The practice session, led by manager Edwin Rodriguez, is scheduled for Tuesday, March 7 at 10:00 am, at the Rockies training camp.

The first Puerto Rico exhibition game is scheduled for Wednesday, March 8, versus San Francisco and the second game on Thursday, March 9, against Colorado, both at 1:00 p.m. (4:00 p.m. Puerto Rico).

After finishing the second game of the exhibition, the Puerto Rican team will leave for Guadalajara, Mexico, where the first round of the Classic will be played, from March 9 to 13. Puerto Rico, runner-up of the 2013 edition of the Classic, will be in Group D together with the representations of Mexico, Venezuela and Italy.

S. Korea defeats Cuba 6-1 in warm-up before World Baseball Classic

South Korea defeated Cuba 6-1 in an exhibition game in Seoul ahead of the World Baseball Classic (WBC).

Starter Chang Won-jun tossed four shutout innings, and the once-maligned lineup pounded out 11 hits at Gocheok Sky Dome in the nation's capital.

The two nations will meet again at 2 p.m. Sunday at the same venue.

South Korea will host Pool A action in the first round against Israel, the Netherlands and Chinese Taipei, starting on March 6. Cuba will face Japan, Australia and China in Pool B play in Tokyo.

Chang, an All-Star left-hander for the Doosan Bears in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO), gave up three hits and struck out three, while making 57 pitches.

South Korea produced just six hits in two practice games earlier this month in Okinawa, Japan, against two Japanese pro clubs, the Yomiuri Giants and the Yokohama DeNA BayStars, but the bats came to life on home soil.

South Korea scored the first run with two outs in the first, on an RBI hit by Lee Dae-ho, former Seattle Mariners first baseman now back with the KBO's Lotte Giants.

Kim Tae-kyun, in the third hole, went 2-for-3 with two walks and two RBIs, both of them coming on a bases-loaded single in the second.

No. 9 hitter Kim Jae-ho made it 4-0 South Korea with a single in the third, and Min Byung-hun drove in South Korea's fifth run with a two-out single in the fifth.

Cuba got a run back in the sixth with three hits off Korean reliever Rhee Dae-eun, but Son Ah-seop, batting sixth, hit a solo shot in the bottom of the sixth to restore a five-run advantage.

The bottom two hitters in the lineup, third baseman Hur Kyoung-min and shortstop Kim Jae-ho, were a combined 5-for-6 with two runs scored.

South Korean manager Kim In-sik said he was happy with the way his offense finally clicked, and his pitchers kept the Cuban bats at bay.

The hitters' inability to get the barrel on the ball during the Okinawa camp led to much hand-wringing, but Kim said he'd known all along his players would come around sooner rather than later.

"You can't just start hitting fastballs and breaking balls right away (early in the spring)," Kim said. "I thought they'd gradually get better. And I think they looked great in practices both yesterday and today."

Though Cuba didn't throw any fireballers at South Korea, Kim said the opposing pitchers delivered plenty of breaking balls -- which suited him just fine.

"We got to see some breaking pitches that we hadn't seen much lately," the manager said. "It'd be nice to hit some fastballs, but we got our taste of breaking balls today."

Kim said Kia Tigers left-hander Yang Hyeon-jong will get the start Sunday, and he'll try to get as many players into the game as he can. (Yonhap)

Japan trounce All-Stars to level series

SOLO HOMER:Japan’s Yamada Tetsuto smashed a solo homer against CPBL starter Cheng Kai-wen in the first frame, and Samurai Japan led the scoring from then on

Japan took advantage of Taiwanese defensive errors and shaky pitching to pile on string of runs in the middle innings on their way to trouncing the CPBL All-Stars 9-1 yesterday, leveling the friendly baseball series at one win each.

It was a good result for the Samurai Japan team, the official name of national squad, for its tune-up preparations ahead of its opening game in the World Baseball Classic next week, and for CPBL players to test their mettle against top-level competition.

Japanese starter Sugano Tomoyuki, ace pitcher for the Tokyo Yomiuri Giants, registered the win, tossing four scoreless innings and leaving his team in front when replaced in the fifth frame by right-hander Ishikawa Ayumu of the Chiba Lotte Marines.

Leadoff batter Yamada Tetsuto smashed a solo homer against CPBL starter Cheng Kai-wen of the Chinatrust Brothers in the opening frame, and Samurai Japan led the scoring from then on, adding more runs from the fifth to seventh innings.

CPBL scored through second baseman Lin Wei-ting, who hit a double to the wall and next batter, Chen Chieh-hsien, sent him home on an RBI-single in the seventh.

In Tuesday’s first game of the series, slugger Wang Po-jung of Lamigo Monkeys earned rave reviews from Japanese baseball officials and fans when he went three-for-three, with a two-run homer and three RBIs, for CPBL to record an 8-5 win.

Both games took place at the Fukuoka Dome in Japan, with Wang “The King” starring after being the Taiwanese league’s MVP last year, setting records for 200 hits and 130 runs scored, a 0.414 batting average and finishing top in home runs, RBIs, slugging percentage and total bases.

The media have linked Wang with pro teams in Japan, South Korea and the US.

While he signed a five-year contract with Lamigo in January, there are reports of an escape clause for him to go play overseas.

“It’s exciting to come to Japan and I am happy to have a good performance with the home run and several hits,” Wang said after Tuesday’s game. “I know there are pro scouts watching me tonight, so it’s good to show what I am capable of.”

“Of course, I would like to challenge the pro leagues in Japan and US, and if can have the chance to go to US, I would like to be listed in the 40-man roster and at least start from 2A and above levels,” he said.

That first contest in the series featured six Lamigo players, including Wang and all-star catcher Lin Hung-yu, which exposed Taiwan’s baseball power struggle between the CPBL with its four pro ballclubs, and the CTBA, the national baseball governing body.

Due to long-running disputes over control of players and a host of political and financial issues, CPBL and CTBA clashed through the years, and with the bad blood reaching a boiling point last year, as the owners of the Lamigo Monkeys announced their team and players would boycott the World Baseball Classic and not play for the national squad in this year’s international competitions.

2017 World Baseball Classic Chinese Taipei Preview

The 2017 Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) World Baseball Classic squad will begin pool play in South Korea on Tuesday, March 7 (local time, which will be March 6th in the USA) against Team Israel. It will have a day off on Wednesday, then face the Netherlands on Thursday, March 9, followed by its final Pool A matchup on Friday, March 10. All games will be played at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul. The top two teams of the pool will move on to Round 2 at the Tokyo Dome.

Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) enters the WBC ranked 4th in the world and expectations are always high in this baseball-loving country. But the fact of the matter is that this year's version of the national team isn't as talented as it could be, and getting out of a very competitive Pool A is going to be a tall task.

Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) enters the WBC ranked 4th in the world and expectations are always high in this baseball-loving country. But the fact of the matter is that this year's version of the national team isn't as talented as it could be, and getting out of a very competitive Pool A is going to be a tall task.

Due to political reasons, Taiwan's Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) is boycotting the national baseball federation and this year's WBC, leaving the decision to each team as to whether to send its players. Three of the four teams allowed their players to go, while the Lamigo Monkeys barred its athletes from representing the nation, meaning phenom outfielder Wang Po-Jung will not be in the lineup. In addition, many of the country's top pitchers, including Chen Wei-Yin (Miami Marlins) and Wang Chien-Ming (free agent) are not participating.

Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) has nonetheless managed to put together a veteran-laden squad that should be competitive in each of its three round-robin games. The lineup from top to bottom is potent, and if the bats get hot this team could be good enough to make a run in the 2017 WBC.

The Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) team split a two-game series versus the Cuban national team in WBC warm-ups on Feb. 20 and 21. Taiwan dropped the first game 6-2 but redeemed itself with a come-from-behind 4-2 victory in the second game. The exhibition games give us an insight into what manager Kuo Tai-Yuan might go with in terms of a starting lineup when the tournament kicks off.

Hu Chin-Lung (DH) R
Chang Chih-Hao (LF) L
Chiang Chih-Hsien (3B) L
Lin Chih-Sheng (2B) R
Lin Yi-Chuan (1B) R
Kao Kuo-Hui (RF) R
Wang Sheng-Wei R / Chen Yung-Chi (SS) R
Cheng Da-Hong (C) L
Lin Che-Hsuan (CF) R

Kuo is an old-school manager who might prefer a more balanced lineup in terms of righties and lefties, but the order above is the most potent the national squad can pencil in.

While Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) is missing some key bats because of the Monkeys’ boycott, the lineup is still laced with veteran hitters. MLB fans will recognize former Dodgers and Mets infielder Hu Chin-Lung (Fubon Guardians) and perhaps Lin Che-Hsuan (Fubon Guardians), who had a cup of coffee with the Red Sox. Chiang (Chinatrust Brothers) and Kao (Fubon Guardians) both played in the high minors.
he one thing this team should be able to do is hit for power, especially in the heart of the order. Chiang, Lin, Lin and Kao, the three-through-six hitters, combined for 115 home runs in the CPBL last season. This part of the order is by far the greatest strength of the squad and if they aren't hitting, Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) is in big trouble.

With most of the batters being middle-of-the-order hitters on their respective CPBL squads, the team lacks a traditional speed aspect. However, with the team’s ability to hit for contact throughout the order, the Taiwanese national team might play a more aggressive hit-and-run style to compensate. This team will not be playing “small ball”, or at least it shouldn’t be.

Defensively, what the infield lacks in speed and range it makes up for in chemistry. The double-play tandem of Wang and Lin play together for the Chinatrust Brothers, as does third baseman Chiang.

The outfield is led by uber-athlete Lin Che-Hsuan in centerfield while Chang Chih-Hao (Chinatrust Brothers), who is also an everyday centerfielder, moves over to the left side. Right field will be something to keep an eye on, as Kao Kuo-Hui is known more for his bat than his glove and DH’d in a quarter of his games in 2016.

The WBC pitching rules will play a huge factor in the team’s usage of its staff. With pitchers limited to 65 pitches per game in Round 1, Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) is going to need some efficient pitching due to its lack of depth at the position.

Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) has two solid starters in Chen Kuan-Yu (Chiba Lotte Marines) and Kuo Chun-Lin (Seibu Lions), both of whom pitch in Japan's NPB. Chen started the first game of the two-game set versus Cuba and threw three scoreless innings, giving up just one hit. Taiwan will have one-and-a-half days off between Games 1 and 3, so it will be interesting to see if the management decides to let Game 1’s starter toe the rubber in Game 3, assuming he doesn't exceed 50 pitches. But realistically, the team will likely use Chen and Kuo in its first two games and perhaps start Pan Wei-Lun (Uni Lions) in Game 3. Pan started the second exhibition game versus Cuba and threw two innings, giving up two unearned runs on two hits, punching out two. The right-hander is known for his pinpoint control, and he only walked three batters over 52.1 innings in 2016 for the CPBL’s Uni-President 7-Eleven Lions.
But after the starters, Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) could be in trouble as there are big question marks in the bullpen. With the pitching limits in place, the team will really need a few guys to fill middle-innings roles, and the first man Manager Kuo turns to could be former Detroit Tigers loogy Ni Fu-Te (Fubon Guardians). Other candidates to eat up innings include former Minnesota Twins farmhand Lo Kuo-Hua, who gave up a hit and a walk in his 0.2 innings versus Cuba, and minor leaguer Chiang Shao-Ching (Cleveland Indians), who wasn't used in the two-game set but will likely be relied upon in Korea.

Working the ninth will be Chen Hung-Wen (Chinatrust Brothers). He closes out games for the Brothers and actually went 9-2 in 2016—not good for a closer—while saving 15 games and blowing eight more in 61 innings of action. Inconsistent is a good word to describe him.

Here’s a quick look at what Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) is up against in the round robin of Round 1.

Israel

Former Colorado Rockies 2009 All-Star pitcher Jason Marquis will start Game 1 for the Israeli national team, likely leaving RHP Corey Baker to draw the start against Chinese Taipei (Taiwan).

Baker tossed five shutout innings against Brazil in the WBC qualifiers back in September, allowing one hit, three walks and striking out six in a 1-0 Israel win. Baker, who reached Triple-A in 2016 with the St. Louis Cardinals organization, has a fastball that sits around 90 mph, a good changeup that he can throw in any count, and a plus sinker that can miss bats. He also has a slider which he can throw to righties.

Even if the Taiwanese batters can chase Baker, they will still have to deal with some serious relievers in 2013 World Series champion LHP Craig Breslow (Miami Marlins) and former Houston Astros RHP Josh Zeid.

If Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) can solve the Israeli pitching, they have a probable shot at starting the tournament at 1-0. Expect Chen Kuan-Yu to draw the start on the mound.

Netherlands

The 2013 WBC semifinalist is loaded with talent throughout its roster. With MLB players like 3B Xander Bogaerts (Boston Red Sox), SS Andrelton Simmons (L.A. Angels), 2B Jonathan Schoop (Baltimore Orioles), LF Jurickson Profar (Texas Rangers), UTIL Didi Gregorius (New York Yankees) and NPB single-season home run record holder Wladimir Balentien (Tokyo Yakult Swallows), this team might be considered the favorite to win Pool A.

As MLB’s Jon Paul Morosi wrote earlier last week, this Dutch infield is a serious strength and it may be one of the best in the entire tournament. It has two Gold Glove Awards at shortstop, a 2016 MLB All-Star with two Silver Slugger awards at third, and a second baseman who hit 25 home runs for the Baltimore Orioles last season. Add in an internationally experienced Curt Smith (Lincoln Saltdogs) at first and you have a squad that can put up crooked numbers at the plate and keep runs off the board with their gloves.

Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) and the Netherlands are very familiar with each other in senior-level competition. They met in the last WBC group stage, where Chinese Taipei won 8-3, and again in the 2015 Premier12 in Taiwan. This time, the Netherlands was victorious by a score of 7-4 in front of 16,000 Taiwanese fans. Diegomar Markwell (Curacao Neptunas) started for the Netherlands, but Shairon Martis (Lincoln Saltdogs) got the win. Both of those pitchers will be in Korea next week.

Another storyline here is with former MLB pitcher and 2011 NL All-Star Jair Jurrjens (free agent). The former Atlanta Brave and native of Curacao pitched in the CPBL in 2016 for the Uni Lions. The right-hander went 6-7 with a 5.38 ERA over 17 starts before a lower-body injury put him on the shelf and he was eventually released in late July.

Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) will have to play flawless baseball to get a win against the much favored Dutch squad, but this should be an exciting match. Look for Kuo Chun-Lin to toe the rubber.

South Korea

South Korea, much like Chinese Taipei (Taiwan), is missing much of its top-end talent in MLBers Jung-Ho Kang (Pittsburgh Pirates), Hyun-Soo Kim (Baltimore Orioles), Byung-Ho Park (Minnesota Twins), Hyun-Jin Ryu (L.A. Dodgers) and Shin-Soo Choo (Texas Rangers). But the “Blue Goblins” will have help from St. Louis Cardinals reliever Seung-Hwan Oh and former Seattle Mariners 1B/DH Dae-Ho Lee (Lotte Giants), not to mention a plethora of stars from the local KBO who have helped this team reach the World No. 3 ranking. Make no mistake, this is an international powerhouse with recent wins at the 2014 Asian Games and the 2015 Premier12. Along with the Dutch, South Korea is a co-favorite to advance to Tokyo.

The fact that these two teams play in the final round-robin game makes it interesting, as it is entirely possible that one, or both, of the teams have already either qualified for Round 2 or been eliminated altogether. This makes predicting starting pitchers and lineups next to impossible, however, we think Pan Wei-Lun will get the start for Chinese Taipei (Taiwan).
Pool A kicks off the WBC on March 6 and it has the potential to be the most intriguing of all the groups. World No. 3 South Korea and No. 4 Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) would usually be the favorites to move on, but both teams come into the tournament undermanned. The Netherlands, with the best infield in the entire tournament, has just as good of a chance to advance as anyone. And don't count out Israel either, as it looks to be the Cinderella team of the tournament.

Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) enters the tournament with a veteran squad and some big bats. It'll have to ride its offense if it hopes to win two or more games and get to Tokyo. Its pitching staff is a bit of a question mark, especially in the bullpen. So is the infield defense. The offense will need to put up runs if it wants to move on. While a third-place finish is the most likely scenario for Chinese Taipei (Taiwan), Pool A is wide open. If the bats get rolling, this team could hit itself to Tokyo.

Segura added to Dominican roster for WBC '17
Mariners shortstop replaces injured Red Sox slugger Ramirez

PEORIA, Ariz. -- Shortstop Jean Segura, one of the Mariners' key offseason acquisitions, will join a large group of Seattle players competing in the World Baseball Classic, as he's been chosen to replace Hanley Ramirez on the Dominican Republic's roster. Ramirez is dealing with a right shoulder injury and will remain in Red Sox camp. Segura will take his spot and Mariners general manager Jerry Dipoto said he has been assured that Segura will play shortstop for the Dominican club so he continues working at the same position he'll fill with Seattle. "It means a lot," Segura said. "Not just to me, but my family and my country, too, the people that love watching us play baseball. It's an honor to be a Dominican boy representing my country in the World Baseball Classic. It's going to be awesome." Segura, who led the National League with 203 hits last season while with the D-backs, is off to a strong start this spring with the Mariners, going 6-for-8 with two doubles and a home run in his first three Cactus League games. Segura joins Mariners teammates Robinson Cano and Nelson Cruz on the defending-champion Dominican squad. Other Mariners competing in the 2017 Classic will be starting pitchers Felix Hernandez (Venezuela) and Yovani Gallardo (Mexico) and closer Edwin Diaz (Puerto Rico), while starter Drew Smyly could be added to Team USA for the second or third rounds of the tournament. Five other Mariners Minor Leaguers are slated to compete, including three who are currently taking part in Major League camp -- outfielder Tyler O'Neill (Canada), catcher Sebastian Valle (Mexico) and reliever Pat Venditte (Italy).
Axford gets work in before Classic departure

MESA, Ariz. -- A's reliever John Axford took the mound for Thursday's 5-1 win over the Rangers for what will be his only spring appearance ahead of his Sunday travels to Miami with Team Canada. The right-hander admittedly felt "rusty" and walked two batters against the Rangers, but he didn't allow a run in his only inning. Axford is expected to throw a bullpen session on Saturday before embarking on his second World Baseball Classic experience, meaning he won't appear in a game for the green and gold again until mid-March. Several pitchers participating in the tournament have already appeared in multiple exhibition games, but Axford preferred not to alter his normal spring schedule, electing to enter play around the same time he normally would.
Pompey hopes to ride momentum into Classic
Blue Jays outfielder homered in first spring action on Wednesday

DUNEDIN, Fla. -- Blue Jays outfielder Dalton Pompey probably couldn't have asked for a much better result at the plate in his first action of the spring Wednesday. Pompey, who entered the game as a defensive replacement for Melvin Upton Jr. in the fifth inning, drove an 0-1 offering from Tigers pitcher Sandy Baez deep over the wall in left field. After spending the first week of games dealing with a chest cold, Pompey said he was just happy to get into some in-game situations. Pompey will leave Blue Jays camp in a few days to represent Canada in the World Baseball Classic. He is expected to be Team Canada's starting center fielder and leadoff man. The Classic will give Pompey the opportunity to deal with different pitching and in-game situations. However, Pompey isn't looking at it as a chance to boost his individual stock; he just wants to compete for his country. The Blue Jays have a surplus of outfielders, and it appears likely that Pompey will start the season with Triple-A Buffalo, but he hopes to make enough of an impression that he could eventually reach the Majors during the season.
Rush of emotions sets Classic apart
Joy of the premier international tournament often transcends outcome

On the penultimate day of pool play in the 2013 World Baseball Classic, Brazil and China met in Fukuoka, Japan. Both teams were 0-2 and had been mathematically eliminated. Yet after China rallied from an eighth-inning deficit to win, 5-2, many players were overcome with emotion, openly weeping on the field. What was so moving about an apparently meaningless game? Well, it mattered to China's shortstop, Ray Chang, who delivered the game-winning hit. He had broken his leg in a Triple-A game in 2011, the night before the Minnesota Twins planned to give him what would've been the only Major League callup of his professional career. It mattered to Chang's parents, Chinese immigrants who moved to Kansas City to open a restaurant and raise a family. His mother, Wendy, spent 14 hours in flight to watch her son play in the Classic and hug him after the game. And it mattered to Chinese baseball, as the win enabled Team China to qualify for this year's World Baseball Classic. MLB operates three Development Centers in China, and Classic participation is vital in sustaining the momentum there. So that is why we saw tears streaming down the faces of players who weren't advancing. They understood something powerful about the World Baseball Classic: Here, even more so than in the World Series, one swing can change a country's sports destiny. Four years later, we meet again to relive old memories, make new ones and mark the progress of baseball's expansion around the world. Ray Chang is back at shortstop for Team China this year, too, for the final act of his professional playing career. When the World Baseball Classic ends, Chang will formally retire to begin a new job in a growing industry: He's the next manager for Major League Baseball's Development Center in Nanjing, China, and promises to bring the experience to the next generation.

Alfredo Despaigne

Cuba to reach the Classic with a team in full restructuring
The team aims to pass the first round that will play in Tokyo

La Habana - With a team in full restructuring and without its stars of yesteryear, Cuba will reach the World Baseball Classic with the discreet aspiration to pass the first round that will be played in Tokyo.

The Cuban team, represented by the champion Granma Alzanes but with a reinforced squad similar to the one that was eliminated in the recent Caribbean Series in which they reached the semifinals.

"It served as a preamble for the Classic," said Cuban manager Carlos Martí, who warned that the level of play in the Classic will be higher and "the expectation of Cuba is to try to move to the second round."

Cuba is in Group B, along with Australia, China and Japan. The squad is led by outfielder Alfredo Despaigne, who just signed for about $11 million and three years with the Japanese league's Fukuoka Softbank Hawks, the most lucrative contract for a Cuban player remaining on the island.

But Cuba will not have men that would have allowed them to dream big, like Jose Abreu, Yasmani Tomás, Yoenis Céspedes, Yasiel Puig, Yulieski Gurriel or Aroldis Chapman, to mention some of those who shine in Major Leagues.

The Cubans will debut on March 7 in Tokyo against the local Japanese squad and the next day will play China followed by Australia.

Marti considered the game with Australia "a key game", "a team that has always played well against us", he explained, as he predicted the game "even" against Japan.

Cuba lost in the finals of the first World Classic in 2006 against Japan, but finished sixth and fifth in the next two editions.

The Bats
Frederick Cepeda
Willian Saavedra
Yoelkis Céspedes

Despaigne, clean up hitter, will not be an unknown in Japan, as he stood out last year with the Chiba Lotte's Marines, batting .280 with 24 homers and 92 RBI in 134 games.

I do not feel yet to be at one hundred percent of my chances, but I have time to adjust, "Despaigne said in mid-February after a training session at the Latin American stadium in Havana.

"The team is in good spirits, I'm going to known lands where I hope to have good results," said the 30-year-old slugger, who last season hit .389 with three homers and eight RBIs.

The Cuban batters will have to overcome the problem of left-handed pitchers as they demonstrated in the recently concluded Caribbean Series when the left-handers silenced the Cubans in the semi-finals. Also notable for the offense is Frederick Cepeda, 37-year-old switch hitter with experience in the first three Classic, the first baseman Willian Saavedra and Jefferson Thinner.

Another to keep in mind is Yoelkis Céspedes, right fielder of 19 years and the younger brother of Yoenis Céspedes, with the New York Mets.

The young Céspedes, national champion with Granma, said that the comparison with his older brother is "an additional pressure", but it is also "something that gives me strength to be like him, and make me a name for myself so that when they want to talk to me, they ask for Yoelkis and not for my brother Yoenis. "

The arms
Lázaro Blanco
Vladimir Garcia
Vladimir Baños
Livan Moinelo
Raidel Martinez

Cuba has solid pitching, with good control but not so much speed, that shone in the Caribbean Series with the ace of rotation, Lázaro Blanco.

The 30-year right allowed a run in 13 innings and ended with a win and a loss in the Caribbean tournament. In the regular Cuban championship had a record of 14-3 and an ERA of 1.63.

Other starters are Vladimir Garcia, a 34-year-old right-hander, a resourceful pitcher with a fastball of up to 96 mph although he has problems with control, and Vladimir Baños, 33, righty with a 90-mile fastball and a well placed slider.

Among the youngsters are left-handed closer Livan Moinelo, 21, and right-hander Raidel Martinez, 20.

Frank Camilo Morejón, a 30-year-old receiver with a good arm, who is difficult to steal base on, knows the pitchers and he leads them with mastery.

"We do not have pitchers with great speed, ranging from 93 to 94 mph, but they know how to pitch, they have control and they respond in great moments," said Morejón.

The defense
Frank Camilo Morejón

Cuba does not have a defense as sure as in the past, as evidenced in the Caribbean Series where a mistake by third baseman Yunior Paumier allowed Mexico's only run in the semifinals.

The same happened in the friendly games against South Korea, when Cuba made three errors and lost 6-1.

Cuba's defensive force is in its catcher Frank Camilo Morejón, a master behind the plate and a man who is very difficult to steal base off of.

The Manager
Carlos Martí

At the age when many are fired, Carlos Martí, 67, will debut for the first time in a major international tournament leading the Cuban team. He also led the team in the Caribbean Series, and won the spot by winning in the Cuban national championship with the Granma Alzanes team.

Fans agree that Martí "returned the smile, the ease, the joy and the desire to play" to Cuban players, summarized the fan Ernesto Salcedo, 19 years.

For Marti, not having the stars of yesterday is not a problem, because "these guys will be motivated to show their talent, and form a harmonious group, with good chemistry and good team spirit as we saw in the Caribbean Series."

Talented Dutch shortstops happy to share position
Bogaerts, Gregorius, Simmons will move around diamond during Classic

SEOUL, South Korea -- If there's one position the Netherlands has a surplus of, it's shortstop -- and two American League East stars don't hide the fact that they're not lacking talent in that department.

"We have a lot of guys that are good; also we're all equal," said the Red Sox's Xander Bogaerts, who will man third base during the upcoming competition and was also part of the Dutch team that finished fourth in the 2013 World Baseball Classic.

Participating in his first Classic, the Yankees' Didi Gregorius echoed his countryman's statement.

"All the guys you see are the best shortstops in the game; everybody's putting up numbers," Gregorius said. "There's no comparisons. Everybody's good here."

The Netherlands will open play against Korea on Tuesday at 4:30 a.m. ET (6:30 p.m. local time), and even though Gregorius likes the makeup of the squad, Pool A carries stiff competition with South Korea, Chinese Taipei and first-timer Israel.

In their first tuneup game at the Gocheok Sky Dome on Friday, the Dutch routed the Korean Army team, 11-1, with the Angels' Andrelton Simmons starting at designated hitter, Bogaerts at third (0-for-3 with a walk and run) and Gregorius at short (1-for-5 with a walk and a run).

"We're going to go back and forth [between positions]," Gregorius said. "We're going to switch up. … There's nothing wrong with that. I'm good with that. Everybody here is good, so everybody is doing their job."

While Simmons has a pair of Gold Glove Awards under his belt and has the reputation as the best defender among the three, the two-time Silver Slugger Award winner Bogaerts is the top hitter.

But who's the best overall AL East shortstop?

The two have been good friends since their youth and are now division rivals. They couldn't settle on one, with Bogaerts diplomatically saying, "Hitting-wise, I would have to say all of us."
"I'd say everybody," Gregorius added. "Everybody is doing their best for their own team."

Lindor to remain at shortstop in Classic

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- An argument could be made for naming either Cleveland's Francisco Lindor or Houston's Carlos Correa as the shortstop for Puerto Rico in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. The Indians would prefer there not to be a debate at all.

On Friday morning, Indians manager Terry Francona said he has discussed the situation with Puerto Rico manager Edwin Rodriguez, who recently managed within Cleveland's farm system. Francona noted that the plan for the Puerto Rican lineup calls for Lindor to start at shortstop or serve as the designated hitter.

"He's not going to get moved around the field," Francona said. "It was a strong request. We wouldn't do that here. That's probably putting him in a difficult spot. Edwin handles things really well. He'll handle it. He was [here], so everybody knows him, but he's a stand-up guy. He'll do it right."

With Lindor leaving for the Classic soon, Francona said Cleveland will need to make some adjustments to its spring schedule. For example, the Indians will run a series of fundamentals workouts later in camp, following Lindor's return from the tournament. Francona did note that the Indians have a high level of trust in how Lindor will handle his busy spring schedule.

"Frankie's really looking forward to this," Francona said. "And, because he understands his responsibilities here, we can kind of pat him on the back and tell him, 'Go knock 'em dead, and see you when you get back.'"

Tight back may keep Carpenter out of Classic
Cards' first baseman due to join Team USA on Monday

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Matt Carpenter's participation in the World Baseball Classic has become uncertain due to back tightness that has left him limited the past two days. Manager Mike Matheny said the Cardinals cut back on Carpenter's work again Friday, one day after the first baseman was scratched. The issue isn't expected to persist for long, but Carpenter is up against the clock with the Classic starting next week. He had been scheduled to depart camp Monday to join Team USA. Now, that's in jeopardy.
Dyson: Wrist won't affect WBC '17 availability
Closer 'never once thought' of missing chance to play for Team USA

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- A day after he tossed another inning in a simulated game, Rangers closer Sam Dyson said Friday he's sure his mildly sprained right wrist won't affect his ability to pitch for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. Dyson was scratched from Tuesday's game after falling on his wrist during fielding practice on Feb. 22. He continued throwing the next two days, but had some discomfort after he pitched a scoreless inning last Saturday. Dyson underwent an MRI on Monday, but he hasn't had to alter his throwing schedule since then. "I haven't taken a day off from the team except for Monday," Dyson said, noting that he had no concern that the injury would threaten his Classic status. "I never once thought I wasn't going. I'd go with a broken leg." The 28-year-old right-hander, who is entering his sixth MLB season, is eager to represent his country for the first time. "It's pretty exciting," Dyson said. "I've never been a part of anything involving Team USA. It'll be a first for me
Axford (Canada) won't participate in Classic

MESA, Ariz. -- Veteran reliever John Axford, citing "personal and professional reasons," has withdrawn from the World Baseball Classic, becoming the third A's player to do so. Sonny Gray was forced out after being denied insurance coverage because of his extended time on the disabled list last year. Teammates Khris Davis (Mexico) and Liam Hendriks (Australia) opted out on their own. "Physically, I feel fantastic and great," Axford said. "It's just more of a matter of things outside of that." After making his spring debut on Thursday, Axford spoke emphatically about representing Team Canada, and he admittedly said Friday's announcement "seems awfully strange based on what I was saying yesterday."
Classic-bound Rosario expected to be starter in LF
Molitor giving left fielder an extended look before he leaves for WBC '17

CLEARWATER, Fla. -- With Eddie Rosario set to leave for the World Baseball Classic on Monday to join Team Puerto Rico for training in Arizona, Twins manager Paul Molitor has been playing the outfielder nearly every day this spring. Despite going on the 90-mile bus ride to Sarasota on Thursday, Rosario made the 140-mile trek to Spectrum Field on Friday to start in center field against the Phillies. He went 1-for-3 in the Twins' 4-3 win and is hitting .308 in five games. And he'll even make the 130-mile trip to The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches on Sunday to see action in right field. Molitor said it's part of his plan to get Rosario ready for the Classic, but he also wants to see what he has in Rosario, whom he expects to be his Opening Day left fielder. "I think that's a fairly good assumption," Molitor said of Rosario being the starter in left. "He hasn't done anything to change how I'm proceeding at the start of the season." Rosario, though, is expected to see time in center and right with Puerto Rico, and the Twins want him to be able to handle center.
Beltre close to committing to Classic
Third baseman optimistic after making Cactus League debut Friday

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Adrian Beltre is increasingly optimistic about his chances of playing in the World Baseball Classic as well as his progress toward being ready for Opening Day for the Rangers after he made his Spring Training game debut Friday at third base against the Mariners. Since the beginning of camp, when he reported with a strained calf suffered just days before in home workouts, Beltre has been agonizing over whether he'd be ready to play for his native Dominican Republic in the Classic beginning next week. He was evaluated by team physician Dr. Keith Meister on Friday morning and given the go-ahead to start later that day. Beltre said his mind is not totally, officially made up about going to the Classic, but Friday helped assuage some of his concerns. He wants more playing time in Arizona before heading to Miami, where the Dominican team will play its first game on Thursday. If Beltre doesn't play in the first round, his team must either play with a short roster to save his spot, or he won't be able to join for a potential second round. "There's no doubt I need to play maybe one or two more games before I leave, if I'm going to go, and know exactly where I'm at," Beltre said.

Team USA Vs. The Dominican Republic All Sold Out

The United States game against the Dominican Republic on Saturday the 11th of this month was sold out. The game, corresponding to Group C of the World Baseball Classic, will be held at Marlins Park in Miami at 7:30 p.m. (local time) and inside holds a capacity of 36,742 seats.

Yesterday, the MLB.com portal announced there were still a limited amount of tickets for other games involving the Dominican Republic and the United States. The price range to watch the games are between $14 to $967.

In the World Classic of 2013, the Dominican Republic defeated the USA in the semifinal round 3-1 and were soon crowned champions after beating Puerto Rico 2-0. The game against the United States was held at Marlins Park.

Stronger than in 2013, RD goes for World Baseball Classic Repeat

When Adrián Beltre started the preseason with a calf problem in his left leg, third base for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic was not alarmed by the possibility that losing Beltre at least the first phase of the tournament would undermine the goal of the team for a repeat.

"Last time they won without me," said Beltre.

The Dominicans did not complicate life with that setback. Nor did they do so when Hanley Ramirez, appointed first baseman, was ruled out by a nuisance in his right shoulder.

The solution? General manager Moisés Alou summoned shortstop Jean Segura, who comes from a season in which he led the National League with 203 hits.

Such is the advantage of the DR that they have an abundance of talent that nourishes the Major League baseball.

And it is that what encourages the desire to repeat as champions.

Alou and manager Tony Peña worked together choosing all the quality talent available in assembling the team, a task in which egos were set aside and skillfully chosen for every day play.

David Ortiz, Albert Pujols, José Bautista and Beltré were not part of the team that was crowned in 2013, but that did not prevent them from coming up with an unbeaten record of 8-0.

It was not that this group lacked luminarias. Robinson Canó, the Most Valuable Player in that tournament, Ramirez, Edwin Encarnacion, Jose Reyes and Nelson Cruz were the most outstanding figures, associating with players the lower leagues like Ricardo Nanita (the fourth outfielder), Eurys Pérez (a pinch runner) and Samuel Deduno (the starter who threw five scorless innings in the final against Puerto Rico).

"I have always said that I believe in men not in names. I am sure that the chemistry that was in the last Classic will exist again," said Peña after announcing the roster that will compete in the fourth edition of the Classic.

They will play against host United States, Canada and debutante Colombia in a first round group based in Miami.

Canó returns to the team that looks more powerful. Manny Machado appears for the first time, while Bautista and Beltre accepted the call. Starling Marte and Gregory Polanco will be the outfielders. The slogan of all was to advance to the peak.

Machado and reliever Dellin Betances are the youngest players that will compete for the Dominicans.

"This team is the same or better than the past," said Alou. "All I want is chemistry."