Bell, Bloomquist Make U.S. Provisional Roster For WBC

Bloomquist will be looked at to provide versatility to the U.S. lineup during the 2013 World Baseball Classic.

The Arizona Diamondbacks’ Heath Bell and Willie Bloomquist were named to the provisional roster for the United States squad for the 2013 World Baseball Classic. The tournament, which features 16 of the world’s best baseball teams, begins for the U.S. team on March 8th at Chase Field, when they face regional rivals, Mexico.

Bell joins a strong U.S. bullpen and Bloomquist provides versatility as he will be looked at to play in a utility role for the Stars and Stripes. 27 total players were named with one more spot left open, according to experts, that will be used for a starting pitcher to be named later.

The U.S. will be managed by Joe Torre. The roster has to be finalized by February 20th. Some notable omissions from the roster include Mike Trout (Anaheim), Andrew McCutchen (Pittsburgh), Buster Posey (San Francisco) and Justin Verlander (Tigers). All declined invitations to play for various reasons.

The other nations will release their rosters later today.

Here is the provisional roster for the U.S. team

2013 Team USA roster

Mark Teixeira 1B Yankees
Brandon Phillips 2B Reds
Jimmy Rollins SS Phillies
David Wright 3B Mets
Joe Mauer C Twins
Ryan Braun LF Brewers
Adam Jones CF Orioles
Giancarlo Stanton RF Marlins
Ben Zobrist INF Rays
Willie Bloomquist INF D-backs
Shane Victorino OF Red Sox
Jonathan Lucroy C Brewers
J.P. Arencibia C Blue Jays
R.A. Dickey SP Blue Jays
Ryan Vogelsong SP Giants
Derek Holland SP Rangers
Kris Medlen SP Braves
Craig Kimbrel RP Braves
Heath Bell RP D-Backs
Chris Perez RP Indians
Vinnie Pestano RP Indians
Luke Gregerson RP Padres
Glen Perkins RP Twins
Steve Cishek RP Marlins
Jeremy Affeldt RP Giants
Tim Collins RP Royals
Mitchell Boggs RP Cardinals