Jan. 9--The Marlins have high expectations for Matt Lindstrom, who is their projected closer next season. They won't be the only ones counting on the hard-throwing pitcher's triple-digit heat.
Lindstrom, who throws one of the fastest fastballs in the majors, has accepted an invitation to represent the United States in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. "It's huge," said Lindstrom, a 28-year-old Idahoan. "You play for your country. We want to show everyone we still have the best talent in the world."
The 16 countries slated to participate in the WBC are assembling provisional rosters. Final rosters will be announced in February, shortly before the tournament starts in March.
Last season, Lindstrom made 66 relief appearances for the Marlins, going 3-3 with five saves and a 3.14 earned-run average. He is expected to assume the ninth-inning role that was vacated when Kevin Gregg was traded in November to the Chicago Cubs.
Lindstrom, who spends most of the winter offseason in Denver, said he has been throwing and working out.
"I'll be ready," Lindstrom said.
Lindstrom said he never expected to receive an invitation. When informational flyers about the WBC were given to players late last season, Lindstrom said he took one look at them and thought, "yeah, right."
"When they called me the day after Christmas, it put a good cap on a big year," Lindstrom said.
Lindstrom isn't the only Marlin expected to take part in the WBC.
Shortstop Hanley Ramirez (Dominican Republic), pitcher Rick Vandenhurk (the Netherlands), reliever Renyel Pinto (Venezuela) and third baseman Jorge Cantu and infielder Alfredo Amezaga (Mexico) also are planning to participate.
The 16-nation tournament starts March 5. Second-round games will be held March 14-19 at Dolphin Stadium and San Diego's PETCO Park, with the semifinals and finals set for Dodger Stadium on March 21 and 23.
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