On Thursday, Jan. 17, 2013, the Cleveland Indians announced six members will participate in the 2013 World Baseball Classic taking place from March 2-19, 2013, and will represent four different countries.
Players participating in the World Baseball Classic will give up part of their spring training in order to compete with other members of their respective nations for this world-class tournament that takes place once every four years.
Yan Gomes, who was originally thought to be participating in the Classic for his home nation of Brazil, has opted instead to work on his development in the Indians’ organization.
Pitcher Vinnie Pestano and pitcher Chris Perez will represent the United States.
Catcher Carlos Santana will represent the Dominican Republic.
Infielder Mike Aviles and pitcher Giovanni Soto will represent Puerto Rico.
Infielder Asdrubal Cabrera will represent Venezuela.
Teams with less than 28 players on their provisional rosters may fill the remaining spots prior to the Wednesday, February 20 deadline. Each Federation must submit its final 28-man roster, including a minimum of 13 pitchers and two catchers, by February 20.
GM Chris Antonetti completely supports his players’ decisions to participate in the unique event when he stated:
"Selfishly, from a team perspective," Antonetti said, "for all our players, we'd prefer that they remain in camp and continue their work with our coaches preparing for the season. At the same time, it's a great opportunity for these guys to go out and represent their countries and play against some great competition.”
"They get to experience something that not everybody gets a chance to do. We're supportive of it."
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