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Seth Lugo to pitch for Puerto Rico in World Baseball Classic

Lugo joins a formidable lineup as Team Puerto Rico looks to repeat tournament success

By Ryan Almodovar

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MLB: New York Mets at Arizona Diamondbacks Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Mets right-handed pitcher Seth Lugo has committed to pitching for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic. Lugo will help to add some much needed depth to Puerto Rico’s pitching staff, which at this time includes Hector Santiago, Edwin Diaz, and Alex Claudio. There has been some speculation that Cubs pitcher Jake Arrieta may join the team, as well.

Team Puerto Rico has an exciting lineup filled with rising and established stars, such as Javier Báez, Fransisco Lindor, Carlos Correa, Yadier Molina, and former Met Carlos Beltrán.

The team will look to continue the success it found in the 2013 World Baseball Classic, in which they upset former champion Japan in the semi-finals only to be swept by the Dominican Republic in the championship round.

Lugo will not be the only member of the Mets competing with Puerto Rico, as bullpen coach Ricky Bones will serve as pitching coach for the team. Puerto Rico will be competing in Pool D during the tournament, joining Mexico, Italy, and Venezuela in group play. The World Baseball Classic is set to begin on March 6, 2017.

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