[Organizations] understand that when they get their players back, they'll have a log of exactly what they've done. When they get back to their teams, they'll have two weeks to resume Spring Training to get ready for the season. |
A lot of our hitters, throughout this tournament, came back to the dugout shaking their heads. |
After he played only 14 games a year ago you can understand why he came to this decision. He's 41 years old. He better do everything he can to have a healthy season. |
After losing to Canada, we're just thrilled we have the opportunity to advance. |
Anybody involved with this tournament would love to see the best teams available. We know that the Cubans have set the standard for international baseball and it would be a good opportunity to measure up their team against the best in the world. |
As a player, I certainly wanted him. But I also wanted somebody with his leadership abilities. I'm sure his being on the team made it easier for us to get some other people. |
As far as the roster, obviously we have continued to have informal talks. Nobody has reached out to anybody at this point, and we're going to get through this night and then we'll have time. |
At this point, I think I would contact anyone. If we have a need to add somebody to this roster, we would be open to anybody on that provisional roster. |
Barry Bonds with a couple of games under his belt is pretty potent. |
Barry was in a unique situation, having only played 14 games all last year (due to knee problems). The closer he got to spring training the more he felt it might be too much. |
Certainly the back end of the Japanese bullpen has drawn a lot of attention because they have great arms, good command, outstanding off-speed pitches. Those guys are going to catch the attention of major league scouts as well. |
Clearly, there is quality baseball being played all over the world. The caliber of pitching we faced was outstanding. Many of our hitters came back to the dugout shaking their heads at the quality of pitches they were seeing. You know, there was a lot said about Team USA not really taking this seriously. But I can guarantee you there are a lot of guys hurting down in that clubhouse now. |
Clemens can throw less than 50 pitches (against Mexico), that's a possibility, but it just depends on the game. We have to advance and we have to use Roger according to the game. But certainly, we'll pay attention to the score and where he is. |
Clemens has the desire to play. |
Eric was very interested in playing. I spoke to him, and he told me, 'I'm here to help out if you need me.' He was nothing but 100 percent committed to this. |