Team Mexico manager Vinny Castilla isn't interested in a cultural debate over what makes one a "true" Mexican, he just wants to put together the best squad possible for the 2009 Classic.
Rockies infielder Omar Quintanilla could miss part of Spring Training, but for a good reason. He has been named to Mexico's provisional roster for the World Baseball Classic.
Brewers pitcher Yovani Gallardo was placed on Mexico's preliminary World Baseball Classic roster. However, the right-hander is also coming off major surgery on his right knee, meaning his chances of playing could be wishful thinking.
Thanks to a potential roster including new arms that could assemble a very deep pitching staff, Mexico is looking to improve on their 2006 World Baseball Classic showing.
Former Major League third baseman Vinny Castilla, who played 16 years in the big leagues, was named manager of Team Mexico for next year's World Baseball Classic, which opens on March 5.
Most were not sure what to expect at the outset of the inaugural World Baseball Classic in 2006, but at the end of the tournament, even the most hardcore skeptics had to admit its overwhelming success.
Changes are being made to the 2009 World Baseball Classic from its '06 debut. One of the biggest is the format of the first round, which will feature a double-elimination format, as opposed to a round robin. The semifinals and finals will be held at Dodger Stadium.
Sergio Romo is playing winter ball for the usual reasons, but he has another motive for heading to Mexicali in the Mexican Pacific League. He hopes that he can gain enough attention to merit selection to Mexico's squad in next year's World Baseball Classic.
