Japan Will Be Without Some Stars For World Baseball Classic

Japanese under manned at World Baseball Classic by Joe Nixon While the Japanese openned as the favorite amongst bookmakers to win the WBC this is likely to change. The Japanese, who won the tournament in 2006 will be with out many of there star players. While it is not surprising that the Yankee  will keep outfielder Hideki Matsui from the WBC as they did in 2006 due to injury. It is suprising Japan that will be without out the service any players from the Chunichi Dragons of the NPB Central League. Chunichi's Hitoki Iwase, the anchor in the Dragon's bullpen  and infielder Masahiko Morino will be held from the March tournament which see's Japan facing the other asian nations  in the first round. Tatsunori Hara manager of theYomiuri Giants will lead the Japanese side this year. In 2006, Japan was lead to it's triumphant by Sadaharu Oh, the 68 year  old manager of the Fuokaka Soft Dei hawks is also hit 867 homeruns while play for the Yomuri Giant. That record is the most ... (link)