Chicago White Sox 1B Paul Konerko May Be Added To Team USA Roster For World Baseball Classic

By Matt Malecha
Paul Konerko Chicago White Sox
Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago White Sox took on Team USA this afternoon in Glendale, Ariz. Moments after the game ended in a 4-4 tie, reports began to swirl regarding White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko.

With an injury to New York Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira, a roster spot has opened up for Team USA. Konerko is now being called a possible replacement by Team USA manager Joe Torre.

Going three for three with an RBI today, Konerko made a great impression if this was in fact an audition for the Sox captain.

With Team USA set to play their first game of the World Baseball Classic this Friday against Team Mexico at Chase Field in Phoenix, Ariz., we should have a decision in the next 24 hours whether or not Konerko is going to suit up for the red, white and blue.

Konerko, who turned 37 today, has a tough choice if he does receive an invite to join Team USA for the WBC. Having had wrist surgery this off-season, he may want to forgo the chance to play in the Classic to give himself a few extra weeks to prepare for the MLB season. That being said, this is most likely his last chance to partake in the WBC.

My gut feeling is if given the opportunity, he will play for Team USA. With a star-studded roster, Team USA is a front-runner to win the World Baseball Classic. Although he is getting much older and he wants to be 100 percent come Opening Day, the chance to play for his country and win the WBC is a once in a lifetime opportunity, which is why I believe he’ll be added to Team USA’s roster tonight or tomorrow.

Matt Malecha is a Chicago White Sox writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattMalecha.

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