Fil-foreign batters join WBC team

The Philippines is set to compete in the World Baseball Classic Qualifier with a team featuring Filipino-foreign Major League players.

Former New York Yankee pitcher Clay Rapada will spearhead the squad along with Miami Dolphin catcher Brad Haynal and Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Angelo Songco in the tournament slated Feb. 11 to 14.

The team, which flew to Sydney, Australia last week, will also have as manager Tim Hulett, current manager of Texas Rangers Single A affiliate Spokane Indians.

The Philippines will be making only its second appearance in a WBC qualifier after finishing in the top two  in the 2013 edition by beating Thailand, 8-2.

Philippine baseball chief Marti Esmendi said they are looking at scoring at least a win.  They face Australia on  opening day.

Only the champion qualifies to the WBC next year in the United States.

“I think it’s a real serious deal [for the Philippines],” Hullet was quoted by worldbaseballclassic.com as saying. “They are trying to make it to the next round so it’s a big deal.”

Also included in the team are outfielder Chris Aguila who played for the Marlins and the Mets and Eric Farris who saw action for the Brewers. Homegrown Filipino pitchers Vladimir Eguia and Jonjon Robles and infielder Jonash Ponce are also in the squad.