World Baseball Classic

[StevieFlack]

VENEZUELA TO WIN 10PTS @ 8/1 OR 9.0 The majority of punters will be looking at the Dominican Republic or the USA at low odds. Fair enough, the Dominicans have great power hitters and the USA is well loaded thorughout. However, for value and an absolutely quality team throughout Im looking no further than the Venezuelans. On the opposite side if the draw to the Usa, and in a group with the Dominicans , Italy and Australia. 2 go through, so im looking at very least for Venezuela to progress in 2nd. Venezuelas pitching is awesone- Santana,Freddy Garcia and Kelvim Escobar as starters. So good that Carlos Zambrano is able to pitch from the bullpen.They have quality to fill the middle relief and the awesome Franky Rodriguez as a closer. REMEMBER- there are strict pitch count rules in place, so pitching depth is very very important. They are extremely solid in offense aswell.Home run derby winner Abreu, a fit again magglio ordonez,the quality of cabrera and the power of catcher victor martinez. I have worries about the strength of Domincans pitching. Offensively they are great with Pujols, Ortiz and Soriano. But NOTE- Vlad Guererro has sadly just pulled out due to 3 of his cousins being killed in a car crash. Also Manny Ramirez will not be playing.Aramis Ramirez and Miguel Tejada are also not playing. Top Pitcher Pedro Martinez has a bad toe , which may stop him completely or hinder his performance. Therefore despite the bullish nature of the Racing Post article this morning concerning the Dominicans I would have great doubts about backing them at short odds. The USA have great strength in depth, but top closer Billy Wagner just pulled out. If the USA treat the competition with anything less than 100% they will be in trouble. I actually prefer the Venezuelas squad to that of the USA.

[StevieFlack]

Re: World Baseball Classic The tournament will be live on NASN.:nana