4 years ago, the 2017 World Baseball Classic took place. The 2021 edition of the competition was cancelled for pandemic reasons, thus the United States either doesn't get a chance to defend their title...or if you're looking at it from my perspective, they remain champions for 4 more years. Either way, since we're being denied the pleasure of international competition, I figure I'd highlight some players that took place in the battle from yesteryear...
...and by "some" I mean every last one who played in the tournament and in the MLB that year...
Starting with the Dominican Republic
The DR were heavy favorites to repeat as champions in 2017 after sweeping the tournament last time. They swept their way through Pool C, knocking off Venezuela, Colombia and the United States. Round 2 proved to be an issue though, starting with Puerto Rico avenging their 2013 finals loss with a 3-1 upset. DR rebounded with a shutout victory against Colombia. It all came down to the rematch against the US. After taking an early lead, the Dominicans were unable to hold off the Americans, and the US pulled out a 6-3 win, sending the champs home.
Average across the board. Not too bad to keep on the bench as a switch hitter who can hold down 1st base.
Not "abad" out of the bullpen. Decent control with a chart I'd be willing to compromise on so long as it's not a close game.
Good pop, not good on-base. You can do better, even on the bench.
Beltre was winding down by now, but still very much respectable. You'd be in good shape with him in your starting lineup.
Betances during the elite phase of his career. Just look at those strikeouts!
Biggest mistake of his life was leaving the Yankees. You can just see how bad his on-base suffered without the other Yankees protecting him in the lineup. Good chart to do damage with, but getting the advantage is another story.
An example of a do-or-die type card.
A bit pricy for otherwise pedestrian stats.
A good option for a mid tier closer.
For a guy who won't play the field, you can hurt the other team a lot with a guy like Cruz on staff. Best utilized on the bench to hold for the ideal spot.
I always hesitate at a pitcher who gives up runners earlier than 16 on his chart. The control of 6 and no doubles may put you at ease, but I'd just as soon look elsewhere.
Jumbo could use more size on his control. Half his chart being either a strikeout or popout is a very redeeming factor.
MVP of his pool in the first round, hence the "super season" designation. If you can swallow the 6 on-base, he'll reward you with a very nice chart and that wonderful 15+ homer power.
Too many good outfield options to envision utilizing Marte.
Average control with no doubles and high strikeout. Wouldn't be my primary closer, but not altogether dismissed.
A mopup, innings eater when down by a lot. Strictly to save the better arms in the bullpen.
Same issue with his Pirates teammate above.
A classic Showdown player who wishes it was a decade ago. Not the worst, but we all know this isnt the Jose Reyes we remember from the original sets...
Nothing that stands out for his card that would justify utilizing him on roster.
Arrows!
Put that 19 from singles to walks and Romero would look more appealing. Lots of Ks, I'm just not in love with the control.
Nothing horrible about his chart, I just would like more offense from a SS with only a +2 for defense.
Another "blowout only" reliever. 20pt seems still a little high.
Either needs a higher on-base or more than just +3 for defense to garner a look for the bench.
5 inning starters are dangerous. You already know the bullpen is in for a long day, so giving up runners at 17 and only a control of 3 lends itself more and more to the idea that he'll be tired by the 4th inning.
