“We don't want the world to know if a guy tested positive in out-of-competition testing -- that's part of the arrangement we made. If they're playing in the tournament and test positive, their removal will be an indication why they were removed.”
“We are very disappointed with the government's decision to deny the participation of a team from Cuba in the World Baseball Classic. We will continue to work within appropriate channels in an attempt to address the government's concerns and will not announce a replacement unless and until that effort fails.”
“I'm not sure what Alex is doing right now. I think, most likely, what U.S.A. Baseball will do is leave a few spots open for players who are on the fence.”
“If someone who is one of the best players on the planet isn't playing in the tournament, then there's something wrong with the tournament. I think it's the right conclusion.”
“Seattle will not want for a personal argument, I'll tell you that much, ... The weather might not be optimal, but we know (CEO) Howard (Lincoln) and Chuck are big supporters of international baseball.”
“Seattle will not want for a personal argument, I'll tell you that much. The weather might not be optimal, but we know (CEO) Howard (Lincoln) and Chuck are big supporters of international baseball.”
“This is Olympic-style-sponsored and WADA-sponsored testing. The International Baseball Federation would not sanction it unless it could have the same testing with the same frequency for the same substances in the same laboratories.”
“Every player has a right to play or not to play. You only hope the player who says no has a full understanding of the tournament and the consequences of his nonparticipation, especially when it's a player who wouldn't be here and who wouldn't have the new contract he has but for the association.”
“We're delighted we could reach agreement with ESPN on what will prove to be, I'm confident, historic broadcasts of the sport. There is a style and intensity that ESPN brings to baseball that makes this agreement the perfect fit for the inaugural games.”
