THUNDER BAY – Professionals could be suiting up at this summer’s Under 18 Baseball World Cup in Thunder Bay.
On Thursday the World Baseball Softball Confederation, which oversees the tournament, announced it will allow Major League Baseball-affiliated players to suit up for the event, which is scheduled to start on Sept. 1.
“This landmark agreement further raises baseball’s international profile, particularly following the unprecedented success and popularity of this year’s World Baseball Classic,” said WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari in a release.
“The national team is intended to be a representation of a country’s best players, and together with Major League Baseball’s shared vision, the top young baseball players in the world will be able to wear their nations’ jerseys in Thunder Bay.”
Hall of fame manager Joe Torre, currently serving as MLB’s chief baseball officer, called it a fantastic opportunity for players.
“We are pleased to work with the WBSC to give our young affiliated players the opportunity to play on this international platform,” Torre said.
“MLB remains committed to our youth all over the world and playing against the best competition in their age group will only enhance their development. As I had the honour of doing at the World Baseball Classic, there is no greater feeling than that of representing your country on the ball field.”
An example of a player who would now be eligible to play as a result of the decision is Toronto Blue Jays prospect Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
The son of future hall-of-famer Vladimir Guerrero, the 18-year-old was born in Montreal and could conceivably be added to the Canadian roster and take part in the 12-team event.
The tournament is open to players born between 1999 and 2001.
