Apparently, Manny Ramirez is not expected to participate in the World Baseball Classic afterall. As part of the deal allowing Manny to report late, the Red Sox got some assurances that he would in fact be available for that three-week period.

I'll believe it when I see it. It would certainly make sense. In fact, it's better for the Sox; I'd gladly give up six days for seventeen.

Ramirez should make that news public soon, if indeed it is going to happen.

I'm sure the Dominican Republic's representatives won't be happy - first A-Rod now Manny.

Speaking of the "Classic," I'm totally against it. While it is great to have players represent their countries, I believe they have an event called the Olympic Games for that.

Last I knew, the International Olympic Committee allows professional athletes to participate. However, since The Games are held in August, the schedule conflicts with Major League Baseball's regular season.

Pro teams have got to be a bit weary of letting their players go during spring training let alone in mid-August. Eventually some big name will get hurt, tainting the events.

I'm also bummed their isn't an Irish team. Aren't there any players from Irish descent playing in the Bigs? This may explain why my own career was cut short.

Without an Irish team in the mix, the U.S. should win this event hands down. With Roger Clemens, A-Rod, Derek Jeter, Johnny Damon, Derek Lee, Brad Lidge, Mark Texieria, Joe Nathan, Dontrelle Willis, how can they lose? Read more about the U.S. team.

Since, I'm forever supporting the underdog, I'm rooting for Netherlands. I mean really, what chance do they have - even with the Brave's Andruw Jones?

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