The rosters for baseball’s version of the World Cup–the 2017 World Baseball Classic–were released Thursday morning, with former Tar Heel standout Andrew Miller earning a place on the U.S. National Team.
Coming off a run to the World Series with the Cleveland Indians this past season, the 6-foot-7 lefty is expected to be one of top bullpen arms for the red, white and blue.
Since the inception of the World Baseball Classic in 2006, the United States has yet to win in three tries. Held once every four years, Japan won the first two tournaments, while 2013 saw the Dominican Republic take over the crown.
Miller will join a stacked American roster that includes superstars like San Francisco Giants catcher Buster Posey, Miami Marlins outfielder Giancarlo Stanton and Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Andrew McCutchen.
He won’t, however, be the only player representing a local school.
Right-handed pitcher Marcus Stroman, who now plays for the Toronto Blue Jays, is a former Duke Blue Devil–meaning the UNC-Duke rivalry will find its way into the event.
In total, 16 countries will field teams featuring some of the MLB’s best players. Games will be played from March 6 to March 22, with opening round pool play being held in Japan, South Korea, Mexico and the U.S.
The Semifinals and Championship Game will be held in Los Angeles at Dodger Stadium.
To see the full roster for each team in the World Baseball Classic, click here.
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