Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year to all those readers of Nat Notes.  May you all be able to spend these holidays with your loved ones, and those close to you.

After a busy 2008, Nat Notes is going to be following the World Baseball Classic closely in 2009, in the lead-up to March.  More-so the South African team, who are being managed by C’s manager Rick Magnante.  Magnante’s squad from RSA will have their hands full, facing Cuba in their Opening game.  A loss would spell the end of their quest, while a win would open up a world of possibilities.

Also in their group are the Aussies, and the host of Group B, Mexico.

Look for the coverage of Group B to begin right as we open up the New Year, as we focus in on all four teams in the Group, but more-so just the South African bunch.  

South Africa is led by big RHP Barry Armitage, ex-property of the Kansas City Royals.  Featured on the RSA team is SS Anthony Phillips who spent the summer as an Infielder for the Everett Aquasox.  The 18-year-old has a bright future ahead of him, as he had 28 hits in 51 games this summer for the Flippers.

Powerhouse Cuba is figured to be a contender for the Tournament Title, and the Aussies may bring some heat into the competition, as they’ve been known to feature some Major Leaguers in the past.  Mexico has had the likes of Vinny Castilla and Ricardo Rincon, and will likely field a similar lineup this time around.d

Nat Notes has many exciting things to offer in the New Year, and the WBC is just one of them.  Check back in the New Year as we continue to offer insight on the Vancouver Canadians, the Oakland A’s, and the rest of Baseball.