After Benedict Arnold Alex Rodriguez decided to play for the Dominican Republic team, David Wright has learned that he will be the starting 3rd baseman for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Wright joins fellow American superstars Grady Sizemore, Derek Jeter, Chipper Jones Brian McCann, John Lackey and Dustin Pedroia on the team so far, with plenty more announcements to follow soon. Jimmy Rollins is expected to be invited to back up Jeter, as well. Others who are rumored to be on the team include Ryan Braun and Joe Nathan,

According to the NY Post, Evan Longoria was extended an invitation to play for Team Mexico, but not the American team. This is a bit strange, because although Longoria has Mexican roots, he is one of the best young 3B in the game, and was born in California. With Wright, however, Team USA won't suffer much at all.

The projected team so far:

C: McCann
1B: ???
2B: Pedroia
3B: Wright, Jones
SS: Jeter, Rollins?
OF: Sizemore
OF: Braun
OF: ???

Pitchers:
John Lackey
Joe Nathan
???

So far Josh Beckett, Ryan Howard, Josh Hamilton, Roy Halladay and Brandon Webb have said that they won't play in the WBC.

Some players thought to be possibilities to fill the remaining spots include Lance Berkman and Kevin Youkilis at first base and Matt Holliday, Nick Markakis and Ryan Ludwick in the outfield, among others. It would also be a surprise if Phillies 2B Chase Utley didn't receive an invitation.

If I was building the team (and I knew everyone would accept the invitation), I would definitely put out invitations to each of the previously mentioned players. My pitchers would include Tim Lincecum, CC Sabathia, Jake Peavy, Cliff Lee, Jon Lester, David Price, Joba Chamberlain, Dan Wheeler, Cole Hamels, Brad Lidge and Jon Papelbon.

Who else should be on the 2009 Team USA roster for the WBC?