Friday 3rd March 2006

On Monday the challenge is the Boston Red Sox, on Wednesday its the world

That is the exciting prospect for Australia's baseballers as they prepare for the inaugural World Classic in Japan, the United States and Puerto Rico

The Australians take on the world famous Red Sox in a warm-up match on Monday before their opening clash of the WBC against Italy in Orlando, Florida

Australia, 2004 Olympic Silver Medallist, has been drawn into 'Pool D', which also features the Dominican Republic and Venezuela

The top two teams from the four pools will progress to the second round

Australian Baseball Federation high performance manager Brett Pickett said the match against Boston was exciting for the sport
"Any practice match is obviously important" Pickett said
"But to throw yourself against a team the calibre of the Boston Red Sox is especially important"

This is the first time a true world tournament has been held for baseball

The Dominican's are regarded as second-favourites for the overall title behind the strong US team

"We're facing some pretty strong opposition" Pickett said
"All the teams are pretty strong in our pool"

The WBC also provides an opportunity for the Australian players to display their talents in front of the world, but more importantly Major League talent scouts