[Lefty Noob]

With all the debate we've had back and forth about whether the WBC was a good idea or a bad idea, and especially in regards to the timing of it, I finally found a story that might sway my opinion against it.

According to Rotowire, Francisco Liriano of Minnesota, thought by many to be one of if not the best pitching prospect in baseball, might lost his chance to become the Twins' fifth starter this season by playing for the Dominican Republic in the WBC.

"I'm not going to punish a guy just because he's going to the World Games," Minnesota manager Ron Gardenhire told the staff of his organization's official web site. "It's hard to get a look at him there, but all you can do is see how he does." But clearly, Gardenhire and his coaches won't have a chance to work directly with Liriano if he plays in the Classic.

Liriano was expected to push Scott Baker for the No. 5 job, but the job would appears to be Bakers to lose under these circumstances. Now, I'm sure the kid really wants to play in the WBC. It's just a shame that doing so might cost him a year, or at least a few more months, in Triple-A.

[EmpireWF]

From the kid's wallet standpoint, it'll hurt him because it will take him another year (it takes 6 big league seasons) to become free agent eligible.

Still, if the Twins need him and the kid is that good, he'll be up sooner than later.

I remember vaguely seeing him pitch in the Futures game last year during the MLB All Star week...kid did look good. Next to the Mariners' Hernandez, I'd put Liriano right up there as far as pitching prospects go.

[victory69]

it is an honor for these latin players to play fo their country. these players are giving back to their country. many of these latin players cam from nothing, and tehy play for the love of the game and country. you can check the latin winter leagues, and it is full of wealthy major league players who paly so their home country can see them in person.

[Lefty Noob]

Hello, victory69, and welcome to GoTeamsGo.com!

You're 100-percent right about the importance of this to Dominican players. That's why there's no question about Liriano dropping out -- he IS going to play. It's just a shame that there has to be a choice between playing for your country in the WBC and trying to win a major league job. It should have to be like that.