Tonight, the American World Baseball Classic team will take on Mexico in their first game (and the third game overall) of round one in Pool D. First baseman, Adrian Gonzalez is Mexico's lone superstar setting up what should be a fairly easy win for team USA. The timing of the game will aid the U.S. even more as the American's ace, knuckle-baller, R.A. Dickey will be going against the second best starter for Mexico. Mexico already lost their first game in a surprise finish against team Italy.
Mark Teixeira was a late scratch for the tournament, but even without him team USA is offensively stacked with perennial All-Stars Brandon Phillips, David Wright, Jimmy Rollins, Joe Mauer and former NL MVP Ryan Braun. Ben Zobrist and Giancarlo Stanton may not have been around as long as some of those other players, but will likely be two of the best offensive producers on the team.
With Chris Perez out with shoulder soreness, Vinnie Pestano will remain the only representive from the Cleveland Indians on team USA. He should be considered the set-up man as Craig Kimbrel is expected to close. Heath Bell and Glen Perkins round out the big names in the bullpen.
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