MLBeat

Ok, here's another question. Can America expect to win the world baseball classic when the Venezuelans and Dominicans are staying in prime shape whilst battling each other in the Caribbean Series?

For instance, when was the last time Dominican star Miguel Tejada hit a three run home run? Yesterday.

When was the last time Michael Young hit one? September 23, 2005.

Unfortunately, the powers that be have rigged the WBC by setting rules limiting pitch counts. Who does this help? The U.S. Who does it hurt? The Caribbean League studs who have been throwing all winter and could easily stand in tomorrow and throw 120 pitches. Too bad for them, the final round limit is 95. Why the handholding?

And one other thing. What is with this Chinese Taipei bullshit? I challenge you to look on a map and find me Chinese Taipei. As far as I know, the country's name is Taiwan.

All I can say is: George Dub better get his ass down to Florida to start a little mini camp to get Brett Myers and company back into shape. Or else Hugo Chavez is gonna kick his ass from here to...Chinese Taipei.

// posted by J Rand @ 7:16 AM