The Australian men's baseball team has announced an experienced roster for its Premier12 debut in South Korea next month.
Manager David Nilsson’s 28-man squad includes 18 players who represented Australia at the 2017 World Baseball Classic in Japan.
Four former big leaguers – Travis Blackley, Luke Hughes, Peter Moylan and Warwick Saupold – have been named along with current MLB-affiliated prospects Robbie Glendinning, Josh Tols and Aaron Whitefield and a wealth of Australian Baseball League stars.
Nilsson said the experience of the 2017 World Baseball Classic could not be undervalued as Team Australia chases Premier12 success and a spot at next year’s Tokyo Olympics.
“They’ve got a couple of years more experience and other guys who were part of that 2017 WBC as bench or reserve players are going to have a greater role,” Nilsson told Baseball.com.au.
“There’s a really good mix there but absolutely on the world stage, in a tournament-style event, the more experience you have the better.
“I really like the balance of the team and the experience of the team … We have a lot of depth and everyone is going to get their opportunity.”
Australia’s roster also includes two-time Helms Award winner Tim Kennelly. Affiliated trio Glendinning, Tols and Whitefield are each former ABL Rookies of the Year, while 16 members of the roster have also been part of an Australian Baseball League championship.
“Nothing can replicate playing on that do-or-die stage, whether it’s the big leagues or an ABLCS or some sort of elimination series,” Nilsson said.
“It’s completely different to a long, drawn out, schedule. Anyone that has had some experience in that area I really value.”
Australian MLB 40-man roster listed pitchers Liam Hendriks and Lewis Thorpe were not available for selection, along with Alex and Lachlan Wells.
Daniel McGrath was also unavailable after logging more than 120 innings during the Minor League season.
“They’re chasing their professional dreams so we understand commitments are going to cross paths at times and they’re not going to be available,” Nilsson said.
“That’s the case here. It’s not a surprise, so we’ve prepared for it.”
Nilsson said he could not wait until Australia’s opener against Group C hosts South Korea on November 6.
“The guys are ready and prepared and I can’t wait. Everyone has bought in since day one when we met down at the AIS (in February).
“They’ve bought into my concept of developing a tournament team, what goes into that and what they individually need to do to prepare for their roles.”
Nilsson’s coaching staff includes 2017 World Baseball Classic assistants Michael Collins and Andrew Graham.
They will be joined by Jim Bennett, Chris Oxspring, Russell Teichmann, Chris Adamson and Shayne Watson.
Team Australia will also face Cuba and Canada in the opening round as it looks to punch its ticket to the super round in Japan.
