In its continuing series about the rosters of the participating countries at the 2009 World Baseball Classic next March, MLB.com looked at Italy on Monday. Besides a bunch of Italian Baseball League players, Minor Leaguers Alex Liddi and Alessandro Maestri, writer Anthony Castrovince especially discussed potential Major Leaguers.
Probable players include free agent catcher Paul LoDuca, outfielder Frank Catalanotto from the TEXAS RANGERS, who had three RBIs for Italy in 2006, and pitchers Jason Grilli (COLORADO ROCKIES) and Justin Speier (LA ANGELS). Speier’s teammate Mike Napoli is also an alternative for the spot behind the plate. Outfielder Justin Ruggiano from the American League champion TAMPA BAY RAYS would only play, if he is not getting an invitation from Team USA. TEXAS’ catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia already declined to participate, as he wants to concentrate to make the big league roster in spring training. There are also rumors that they have asked Mike Piazza, who retired from his career last winter, to take over as hitting coach of the squad.
Marco Mazzieri will lead Italy as manager in the tournament. A preliminary 45-man roster for the Azzurri will be announced in mid-January. The final roster of 28 has to be set by February 20th for the WBC, which will start on March 5th. Italy is slotted into group C at the Rogers Centre in Toronto. Their opponents are Canada, the United States and Venezuela in a double elimination format. They are open the event on Saturday, March 7th at 8pm ET against Venezuela.