WBC roster breakdown: Mexico

March 2, 2:17 PMMLB ExaminerAlex Brown

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AP Photo/Bob Levey, File

Mexico has a rich baseball history – it’s popularity among Mexicans is probably second only to soccer.  From Jorge Orta’s famous “hit” in the 1985 World Series, to Fernando-Mania in the 1980s, to Vinny Castilla in Coors field in the 1990s – Mexican players have had an impact in Major League Baseball.  Here’s a look at their 2009 WBC roster:

• Pitchers: Luis Ayala, Jorge Campillo, Francisco Campos, David Cortes, Elmer Dessens, Rafael Diaz, Rodrigo Lopez, Pablo Ortega, Oliver Perez, Dennys Reyes, Ricardo Rincon, Francisco Rodriguez, Joakim Soria

There’s some talent in this group, with Oliver Perez (pictured) at the top of the rotation and Joakim Soria locking down the 9th inning as the closer.  Dennys Reyes and Ricardo Rincon have been capable lefty specialists in the majors, and Jorge Campillo had a nice year for Atlanta in 2008. 

• Catchers : Rod Barajas, Miguel Ojeda

Barajas is a power-htiting catcher who will surprise you with his defensive abilities.  Ojeda has spent some time in the majors as a backup.

• Infielders : Jorge Cantu, Erubiel Durazo, Adrian Gonzalez, Edgar Gonzalez, Jerry Hairston, Jr., Agustin Murillo, Augie Ojeda, Oscar Robles, Freddy Sandoval, Jorge Vazquez

More familar faces on the Mexican infield – this group is led by first baseman Adrian Gonzalez who hits for big power and a high average.  Jorge Cantu is a power hitting third baseman, and Erubiel Durazo is making an appearance since his big league career ended in 2005. 

• Outfielders : Alfredo Amezaga, Karim Garcia, Scott Hairston

Though born in the U.S., Hairston is of Mexican heritage so he’s on the team.  Amezaga is a versatile player who can play nearly any position on the field, and Karim Garcia was once a top power hitting prospect in the Dodgers farm system. 

Notable Absences: Vinny Castilla, Antonio Osuna, Oscar Villarreal, Benji Gil

Mexico didn’t perform very well in the 2006 WBC, so we’ll see if they can rebound in 2009.  They have some top level talent, but it doesn’t look like it’s enough to stack up against the heavyweights of the international baseball community.