Indeed!
Cleef said:
Legally I doubt it, but who knows. It's an MLB sanctioned event, so I'm sure the fine print is disgusting to look at.
The Yankees have been the most outspoken critics of the whole event. As with anything, follow the money. They're putting out a $300 million product this year, and they don't have anything to replace Posada with.
I'm sure it wouldn't be all that difficult for any team to dissuade a player from participating. A simple breakdown of "risk vs. reward" would convince any sane individual to bow to their employers wishes.
I think the Yankees are right in asking/telling him not to participate. A catcher has the greatest responsibility (of all players) in spring training. He has to build a rapport with the pitchers, the importance of which can't be quantified.
Actually, they are doing it legally. Posada is not happy about it but, oh well.
Trust me, if you or I were the ones investing 300 millions, we would "fight" till no end to see that our investment is not at risk of any injuries. Since they are the most expensive team, they have the most to "pay" if one of their players get hurt.
I believe that soon, MOST teams, if not all, will be writting a clause into a player's contract in case they want to play in the WBC. I think that, as time passes by, you will see less and less "superstars" playing in the event.
Let's wait and see.
Btw, later today, I will post the USA team players. Let me tall you that before I saw the player's names, I thought that the DR's team had a NO chance in hell, but after seeing the lineup, the DR, I guess, has a chance, maybe.