The 2013 World Baseball Classic rosters were announced today on MLB.com. Below are the players in the Pittsburgh Pirates system who are playing in the event.
Australia
Stefan Welch – Welch was signed by the Pirates last year and hit for a .266/.339/.416 line in 440 at-bats between high-A and Double-A. He played mostly third base for the Pirates last year, but is listed as a shortstop. Welch has never played short in his six year minor league career.
Canada
Chris Leroux – He’s out of options this year and fighting for a spot in the Pirates’ bullpen.
Jameson Taillon – Taillon is from Texas, but his dad is French Canadian, which makes him eligible here.
Russell Martin – The Pirates’ starting catcher will be playing for Team Canada. There was talk at one point that he could play shortstop.
Dominican Republic
Wandy Rodriguez – Should start for the Dominican Republic.
Italy
Jason Grilli – The Pirates closer will get his work with Team Italy.
Mexico
Ali Solis – Claimed off waivers from the Padres over the off-season. Will be the backup to Rod Barajas for Team Mexico.
Puerto Rico
Ivan De Jesus – Infielder added in the Joel Hanrahan trade.
UPDATE 5:00 PM: I had Gift Ngoepe (South Africa) and Charlie Cutler (Israel) listed previously, but I learned those teams have been eliminated. As I mentioned on Twitter earlier, I care about the World Baseball Classic a little less than I care about the Olympics. And I don’t care about the Olympics at all.
I wish cutch was playing for team USA