Visit All World All Sports
by Digger
World Baseball Classic rosters were finalized and announced this week. Team USA is looking to avenge their poor results from 2006. USA 2009 will be skippered by no nonsense Manager Davey Johnson. DJ is focused on winning it all. It's already been made clear players in the groove will play most often.
Sometimes teams overloaded with super talent coaches/managers tend to try getting everyone into games. The results often weaken clubs. USA's failed Dream Team Olympic Basketball squads are perfect examples of enormous talent failing to win it all. The worlds best players will be representing their countries in WBC play. There will be a wide variety of baseball styles. USA had better be ready to play. Opening games begin March 5th.
Johnson's USA WBC lineup is set for the 16 team double elimation format. USA will carry 14 pitchers (10 relievers). Oswalt & Peavy will pitch the first two games. Lilly & Guthrie will fill in when necessary. 10 relievers is a must as WBC has set pitch count guidelines for starters (1st round 65, 2nd 80, Semi's + Finals 95). A deep pen provides plenty of fresh arms.
Time to fill out my projected lineup card vs Davey's:
SS - Rollins
CF - Granderson
RF - Sizemore
DH - Chipper
1B - Youkilis
3B - Wright
C - McCann
LF - Braun
2B - Pedroia
DJ will be starting team Captain Derek Jeter (batting 2nd) and is currently leaning towards Sizemore in center and Hawpe batting 9th in RF.
USA's first opponent is Canada (March 7). They've got a few big bats too (Jason Bay, Jay Votto, Justin Morneau).
The majors biggest names will represent their homelands. No weak teams in this tourney. Baseball season is back... time flies!
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