The Australian Baseball Federation is pleased to announce the roster for the 2011 Australian Senior Men’s baseball team that will travel to Panama later this month ahead of the 2011 IBAF Baseball World Cup which is scheduled to be held from 2-15 October, 2011 in Panama City, Chitre City and Santiago City.

 

The IBAF and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the 39th edition of the IBAF Baseball World Cup announced the groupings for the first round of the event will be divided into the following groups;

Group One: The United States, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Canada, the Netherlands, Puerto Rico, Panama and Greece.

Group Two: Cuba, Korea, Australia, Venezuela, Italy, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and Germany.

 

This roster announcement follows an exciting few days for Australian baseball with a record breaking nine Australians in total being called up to the Major League Baseball stage this season.

 

Australian Head Coach, Jon Deeble, said the fortunate situation of having four Aussie’s being called up to Major League baseball rosters recently has impacted on our National Team selection, but on the other hand, it has resulted in the assembly of an exciting young team of players for the 2011 World Cup campaign; and for eight of whom it will be their first time representing Australia.

 

“The average age of the players will be 21-22 years old, so what we’re looking at is the basis of the National Team for the next seven to eight years, which is really exciting.”

 

“We’re looking forward to the World Cup, it will be challenging but we are sure we can match it with any team in the world,” said Deeble.

 

Chief Executive Officer for the Australian Baseball Federation, Mr Brett Pickett, said the announcement of such a young roster showcases the expediency of the Australian Baseball development pathway and high performance programs.

 

“With our Aussie’s doing so well in Major League Baseball this week, it is an inspiring time for the youth to join our National Senior Team.”

 

“Having eight players representing Australia for the first time will provide an exciting snap shot of the talent Australian Baseball is producing in recent years.”

 The Australian Baseball Federation would like to congratulate the above listed players and staff on their team selection; and wish them all the best in their World Cup campaign.