The World Baseball Classic runs through March 19 with 16 teams hoping to rule the baseball world. Since international baseball brings new players and storylines, Big League Stew is helping you get ready this worldly clash with previews of each team.
Italy
Pool: Pool D, Phoenix.
’09 finish: 1-2 (upsetting Canada), did not reach second round.
First game: March 7 vs. Mexico.
Biggest stars: He’s just 23, but slugger Anthony Rizzo looks like a star for the Chicago Cubs. Chris Denorfia of the San Diego Padres returns to the WBC and is a good player whose numbers have been muted by his cavernous home ballpark. Nick Punto of the Dodgers brings grit and spunk and more grit. Right-hander Jason Grilli, whose agent is Gary Sheffield (can’t get over that) is the most famous (and perhaps most talented) pitcher on the staff. It’s his third WBC.

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