In a way, it’s too bad we’ve divided the Dominicans and the Japanese into separate groups. They certainly look like the two best of our international teams. But with 10 non-U.S. entries and only six teams in each group, we had to do something.
(If your favorite nation isn’t here, it’s somewhere else. Canada is in the Midwest, perhaps strangely; Japan is in the Pacific; Europe in the Capitol; and Mexico in the Southwest.)
The Dominicans should dominate the International and earn the top seed in the tournament stage. But who will join them?
1. Dominican Republic. Just way too much firepower, and a steady diet of Marichal and Martinez will wear down the opposition. (Does anybody else think that some pitching coach today would change Juan’s distinctive high kick?)
2. Cuba. Experienced in tournament play, those old guys will give them enough to get through.
3. Venezuela. The emerging foreign power in baseball. Cabrera, Abreu, Santana and the rest will keep them competitive.
4. Puerto Rico. Did you know that Javier Vazquez is the country’s all-time winningest pitcher? He’s OK, but not the ace that the top teams have, and that’s why they’re below the others.
5. Panama Plus. How many save opportunities will they provide for Mariano Rivera? I’m guessing no more than five.
6. NJAA. No chance for them, unfortunately, but maybe I can come up with a better name for this Asian group that does not include Japan.
Next: Midwest redefined.
Base instincts 