Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — It’s going to be a little emptier than normal at Camelback Ranch next Spring. MLB announced on Friday that shortstop Trea Turner has agreed to play for Team USA on what is shaping up to be a real team of world beaters. Which makes sense, since Team USA is trying to beat the rest of the world.
This makes three Dodgers so far to commit to the WBC. In addition to Turner, outfielder Mookie Betts and catcher Will Smith have already been brought into the fold. Third base coach Dino Ebel will also be joining manager Mark DeRosa’s staff.
Turner is in the midst of another spectacular season in Dodger Blue. He currently is hitting .306 and is second to teammate Freddie Freeman in the MLB lead in hits for the year, with 162. Turner’s .829 OPS trails only Xander Bogaerts among shortstops. White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson is also committed to the WBC, but has been limited by injury to just 79 games this season.
Team USA will begin its title defense as part of Pool C at Chase Field in Phoenix, from March 11-15, facing Canada, Colombia, Mexico and a to-be-determined qualifying team. The Pool C winner and runner-up will advance to the quarterfinals in Miami from March 17-18, where they will match up against the winner and runner-up of Pool D.
I think the smart money is betting on Team USA next year. Should be a great tournament!!
