Team USA added two new names to the roster for the upcoming World Cup of Baseball in Taipei. Pitcher Matt WHITE (AAA, Royals) and outfielder Justin RUGGIANO (AAA, Devil Rays) replace Heath PHILLIPS (AAA, White Sox) and Jay BRUCE (AAA, Reds) on the squad. BRUCE was named Minor League Player of the Year by Baseball America. His missing will be a hard loss for team USA.
They will begin their six-exhibition-game schedule against Arizona Fall League Clubs next Thursday.