Former Bluejay Venditte to Play in World Baseball Classic for Italy
2/26/2013 10:46:00 AM | Baseball
OMAHA, Neb. - Former Bluejay Pat Venditte (2005-08) was officially added to the World Baseball Classic (WBC) roster for Team Italy on Thursday, Feb. 21.
A member of the New York Yankee organization, Venditte is best known for his ability to pitch with either arm. Venditte is expected to pitch exclusively as a left-hander in the WBC as he continues to recover from surgery to repair a torn labrum in his right arm, suffered last season.
Team Italy is in Pool D of the 16-team tournament with Mexico, Canada and the United State. Pool play is scheduled to begin on March 7, with Team Italy facing Team Mexico at 1 p.m.
Some of Venditte's teammates on Team Italy include current Major Leaguers: Jeff Bianchi (SS - Milwaukee Brewers), Drew Butera (C - Minnesota Twins), Mike Costanzo (OF - Cincinnati Reds), Chris Denorfia (OF - San Diego Padres), Jason Grilli (RHP - Pittsburgh Pirates), Alex Liddi (3B - Seattle Mariners), Nick Punto (INF - Los Angeles Dodgers) and Anthony Rizzo (1B - Chicago Cubs).
For the full Italy roster, click here.
