Cary, North Carolina- Team Canada held its first official workout at the USA Baseball Training Facility in preparation of the upcoming Pan Am Games/ World Cup Qualifier in Puerto Rico from October 1st-13th.
Most Canadian staff and players arrived in town on Friday which made for a reunion of sorts amongst the players who’ve played with one another in previous international events. This club includes 11 players from 2009 World Cup team that brought home a bronze medal.
“This is something you look forward to as soon as you get invited,” says Shawn Bowman (Port Moody, BC), a returning member of the 2009 team. “We’ve got a good team and we know we can do some things (on the field). It’s going to be a great experience.”
Bowman pointed out the fact that many players are familiar with one another will pay huge dividends once the tournament gets going, and will avoid the ‘feeling out process’ that many international teams face.
“When you have guys that you get along with and are good guys in the clubhouse it makes it a lot easier when you get out on the field to play, “added Bowman. “When you get between the lines, we’re all battling for our country and for the guys on our team.”
The squad worked out under the blistering North Carolina heat in what was a crisp and efficient session. Most players have been off for 2-3 weeks since their minor league seasons ended, so it was important to get out onto the field to shake off any rust.
Another reason for optimism with this club is the mainstays on the coaching staff, including Manager Ernie Whitt, who enjoys his experience with the National Team more and more each time out.
“I love it,” exclaimed Whitt. “It’s always a good group of guys; I know I’m going to get a great effort from them which makes it easier for me as a manager.”
Canada will get down to work on Sunday as they take on Team USA in the first of four pre tournament games. For players, it will be an opportunity to get back into playing form after being off, where they will be looking to refine their games.
“For the team the ‘W’ is not as important in these games, it’s just making sure that everyone feels comfortable,” explained Bowman. “Personally, I just want to get some at-bats in so that I feel comfortable in the (batters) box when we get to Puerto Rico.”
From a managerial standpoint, Whitt would like to see guys get as many at-bats as possible and also give his pitchers the opportunity to throw in game situations again.
“We just want to give the guys a couple of (exhibition) games before the tournament starts, just to fine-tune some stuff,” said Whitt. “
Whitt also explained that since players are just coming off a full season of play, it is important to monitor them closely, especially when it comes to pitchers.
“We’ll be cautious with our pitchers,” said Whitt. “The last thing you want to do is put them out there when they’re going to injure their arms. We’ll keep a watchful eye over them and make sure they’re not struggling out there. “
Notes: The game between Canada and USA on September 26th has been moved to 11:30am ET because of the possibility of inclement weather in the Cary area. …The game will be 6 innings in length as Team USA will play the Puerto Rican National Team in a 6-inning affair after immediately following the Canadian game.
