WBC roster breakdown: The Dominican Republic

March 2, 9:20 AMMLB ExaminerAlex Brown

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AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

The Dominican Republic has been a producer of top baseball talent for decades, and this history is reflected in the country’s 2009 World Baseball Classic roster.  There are some big names and lofty stats among this group, but can they come together as a unit and make noise in the WBC tournament?  Here’s a breakdown of their roster:

• Pitchers: Jose Arredondo, Juan Cruz, Johnny Cueto, Ubaldo Jimenez, Julio Manon, Damaso Marte, Pedro Martinez, Tony Pena, Odalis Perez, Rafael Perez, Edinson Volquez, Carlos Marmol

There are some electric arms in this group, namely Johnny Cueto and Edinson Volquez of the Reds and Ubaldo Jimenez of the Rockies.  Pedro Martinez is one to watch, as he’ll be showcasing himself for a big league contract during the WBC.  Marmol, Arredondo, and Pena will hold things down against righties, while Damaso Marte and Rafael Perez will lock down the lefties.  Odalis Perez is an interesting player – he recently backed out of a minor league deal with the Nationals and has no 2009 team.

• Catchers: Alberto Castillo, Miguel Olivo

Olivo has found new life as the starting catcher for the Kansas City Royals, and Castillo is a long time major league backup known for his defensive ability.

• Infielders: Willy Aybar, Robinson Cano, David Ortiz, Hanley Ramirez, Jose Reyes, Alex Rodriguez, Miguel Tejada

A-Rod joins the team amidst much scrutiny for his steroids admission – he’s joined by Rays third baseman Willy Aybar.  Hanley Ramirez (pictured) and Jose Reyes are two of the best young shortstops in the game, and Robinson Cano has had some excellent years at second for the Yankees.  David Ortiz’s power ability is well known – he’ll likely DH rather than play first base.

• Outfielders: Moises Alou, Jose Bautista, Nelson R. Cruz, Jose Guillen, Willy Taveras

Jose Guillen is the best of this group – he hits for power and has a cannon for an arm in right field.  Willy Taveras is one of the fastest players in the game in center field, and Moises Alou is a long time veteran of the game.  Nelson Cruz is a player to watch – he hit for big time power in the minors in 2008 and will compete for a starting job in the Rangers outfield in 2009.

Notable Absences: Francisco Liriano, Fernando Rodney, Albert Pujols, Alfonso Soriano, Vladimir Guerrero

In terms of pure talent, the Dominican Republic is on par with the likes of the United States, Puerto Rico, Japan, Cuba, and Venezuela.  It’s hard to say who among that group is the best, as things have evened out talent-wise over the last two decades.  With plenty of stars, young players, and storylines, this should be a fun group to watch.