Wonderful.

 

http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory?id=1675417

 

PHOENIX Mar 1, 2006 (AP)? New York Mets closer Billy Wagner and Cleveland pitcher C.C. Sabathia withdrew Wednesday from the U.S. roster for the World Baseball Classic and were replaced by Washington right-hander Gary Majewski and Yankees left-hander Al Leiter.

 

Leiter becomes the fourth player from the Yankees on the 30-man roster, joining shortstop Derek Jeter, third baseman Alex Rodriguez and center fielder Johnny Damon.

 

Two other Nationals are on the team: closer Chad Cordero and catcher Brian Schneider.

 

The roster for the first round, initially announced Feb. 14, has to be finalized by noon EST Wednesday.

 

"Although I would love to pitch in the inaugural World Baseball Classic and am proud to represent my country, I will not be ready to pitch in a competitive-game environment when play begins on March 7," Sabathia said in a statement released by the Indians.

Damn Al, it's time to hang it up already...

I have officially zero anticipation for this now. Had so much potential but it is running out of air lately.

We should be ok with 3 starters. The schedule works out fine for that.

Them leaving sucks, but I wasn't holding out hope to watch Sabathia or Wagner. I'm more disappointed by the whole "who cares" attitude that is undermining this.

meh. Majewski? :thumbsdown

Those two just lost all respect from Tommy Lasorda. I hope they feel it was worth it.

I'm more surprised at Manny and Pedro than I am at Wagner and Sabathia. Sad as it is, you kind of come to expect this from the best Americans whether it be basketball or baseball.

Damn. Buck is going to have to give Al some innings. Brings back scary memories from last year, spring training included.

Next thing you know Bob Hamelin, Reggie Kelly, Scot Pose and Kevin Orie will allbe starting. I hear Hough is available.