Several members of Minnesota Twins could join the World Baseball Classic in 2006.
Like other major league teams, Twins has players who came from different countries, could fight each other next March.
Utility infielder Juan Castro has already committed to playing for Mexico, “It’ll be a good event for people everywhere,” Castro said. “It’s an honor to be invited. I don’t know when I’ll have the chance again to represent Mexico.”
First baseman Justin Morneau, who has been in Team Canada before, but not include 2004 Olympics, could represent Canada. “If I’m invited, I’d like to play,” Morneau said.
Reliever Jesse Crain, an American who was born in Toronto, since he’s eligible to play for both nations, he was also willing to play for Canada. “Yeah, if they ask me and Team USA doesn’t,” Crain said. “It sounds like it would be fun. Obviously, I’d like to play for Team USA, but I don’t think they’ll ask me.”
Reliever Juan Rincon and starting pitcher Carlos Silva weren’t sure if they would be able to play for Venezuela due to injury recovery.
Because World Baseball Classic will be held in March, means Spring Training next year is not the same as previous one.
For Manager Ron Gardenhire, he did not have problem with losing some guys, as long as their health is protected. “I think representing your country is a wonderful thing,” Gardenhire said. “But hopefully they’ll understand that they have to get themselves into good shape early. I think baseball will take a part in that to get guys into good shape and they’ll be ready to go and not hurt themselves.”
Notes: Twins look foward to Classic
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