The Dutch Honkbalsite (Honkbalsite.com) reports on Thursday morning that shortstop Hainley Statia will miss the remainder of the 2009 World Baseball Classic due to an injury. He strained his hamstring midway through game two versus Puerto Rico. The 23-year-old is returning to the Los Angeles Angels to receive treatment. Statia was hitless in four at-bats for the Dutch team.
Manager Rod Delmonico will replace Statia with Dwayne Kemp on the roster. The 21-year-old, under contract with the Chicago Cubs organization, is expected to arrive in Miami on Friday. The infielder also was with the team during the early preparation phase in Florida, being a pinch hitter versus the Korean Woori Heroes.
Additionally Rogier van Zorn reports that there are rumors that starting pitcher Jair Jurrjens of the Atlanta Braves could join the pitching staff of the Netherlands team during the second round. Apparently the right-hander has indicated interest and the Braves aren’t opposed a participation from their best 2008 starter. However a decision hasn’t been made yet.
No word about Seattle Mariners top prospect Gregory Halman and his absence from the lineup the last two games. He had some problems at the plate in the first three games, going one-for-nine with a double, a run scored and unfortunately seven strikeouts. Will Gonzalez of MLB.com talked to him two days ago.
