By PATRICK GORDON | Managing Editor
@Philabaseball
Jimmy Rollins once again will lend his skills to Team USA for the World Baseball Classic.
The shortstop was named to the United States' provisional roster on Thursday. The 34-year-old participated in the 2009 World Baseball Classic and was the only player from the United States to be named to the All-Tournament Team.
"It was a blast, there wasn't one moment I would take back," Rollins said following the last tournament.
The United States has never reached the finals, losing in the second-round in 2006 and in the semi-finals at Dodger Stadium in 2009.
"I'm excited about this team we put together and I'm pleased that the players seem to be equally excited," U.S. manager Joe Torre said in a statement. "That's important that these guys have the passion to represent USA and hopefully we'll do good things."
The Americans open the Classic on March 8 in Phoenix against Mexico. Canada and Italy are the other two teams in Pool D.
Six other Phillies will join Rollins in the Classic, including three with Team Canada: right-hander Phillippe Aumont, outfielder Tyson Gillies and utility player Pete Orr.
"Honored to be selected for @baseballcanada in the 2013 World Baseball Classic. Absolutely can't wait!" Gillies tweeted.
Elsewhere, left-hander Cesar Jimenez will play for Venezuela, second baseman Lucas Rojo was selected by Brazil and catcher/infielder Tim Kennelly was picked for Australia.
- Patrick Gordon is the editor of the Philadelphia Baseball Review. Contact him at pgordon@philadelphiabaseballreview.com or @Philabaseball on Twitter.
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