When Baltimore Orioles outfielder Adam Jones was invited to represent the U.S. in the upcoming 2013 World Baseball Classic, Jones didn’t take the decision lightly, nor did he take time to think it over. He accepted the invitation immediately. Team USA manager Joe Torre contacted Jones before Christmas and extended the invitation.
“I said, ‘You’re damn right. Of course I want to play for my country,'” Jones said of the inquiring phone call from Team USA manager Joe Torre. “I take pride in something like that.” Jones joins Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun, New York Mets third baseman David Wright, and Minnesota Twins catcher Joe Mauer who had previously committed to play in the WBC. The full Team USA roster will be officially announced on Thursday. This year’s Classic, which featured an expanded pool of participating teams, will be held from March 2-19.
Players who participate in the WC will be required to be away from their teams’ respective spring-training camps in early March, and quickly discounted any notion over his health or possible fatigue. “The fatigue factor? I’m 27 years old. I work out my legs four to five days a week just to keep my legs healthy and my legs fresh,” said Jones
The likable fan favorite Jones announced the news himself on twitter @SimplyAJ10.
Yep it’s official. Get to play for #TeamUSA. Couldn’t be prouder to play for my country #WBC #StayHungry IM AN AMERICAN (Toby Keith voice)
— Adam Jones (@SimplyAJ10) January 11, 2013
