Pool B will have a clear favorite this year. Cuba enters play at Mexico City’s Foro Sol with a veteran-laden team that lost to Japan in the ’06 WBC Final. Pedro Lazo, Cuba’s all-time leader in wins, heads a strong pitching staff; while infielder Yuliesky Gourriel is the best of a very strong batting order.
Mexico shocked the USA in the ’06 WBC, and should join Cuba in the second round this time. Padres All-Star first baseman Adrian Gonzalez brings power to a lineup well-versed in fundamentals, and Royals closer Joakim Soria will finish games started by one of the deepest pitching staffs in the WBC.
Australia scored just four runs in the ’06 WBC, but with the likes of Chris Snelling, Justin Huber and Brad Harman, the Aussies are just good enough to be scary.
South Africa doesn’t figure to be a factor in Pool B competition.
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