Cal Quantrill, a right-handed pitcher for Canada, is set to start the decisive Pool A game against Cuba in the World Baseball Classic, a match that will determine Canada’s advancement to the quarterfinals. The game, scheduled for Wednesday, marks a critical moment in the tournament as both teams enter with identical 2-1 records, trailing Puerto Rico’s 3-1 tally. Quantrill, who signed a minor-league deal with the Texas Rangers in February, made it clear his commitment to representing Canada outweighed any potential conflict with his new team. Quantrill, who previously pitched for the Cleveland Guardians in the 2022 American League Division Series, emphasized the importance of competing in the WBC, calling it “a little like the playoffs.” He noted that while the tournament’s rules limit pitching appearances, the preparation remains consistent with high-stakes games. “You really can't afford to take a game off,” he said, adding that his routine for the Cuba matchup would mirror his approach in the postseason. Canada’s path to the quarterfinals became clear after a 4-3 loss to Panama on Sunday eliminated any alternate routes to advancement. The team’s focus now centers on securing a win against Cuba, a task Quantrill is eager to tackle. “I wasn’t going to miss this opportunity,” he said, reflecting on his decision to prioritize the WBC over spring training. The Rangers, he added, were understanding of his choice. The Canadians’ strategy against Cuba includes leveraging data on the team’s hitters, as Quantrill admitted he is unfamiliar with many of the Cuban players. Cuba is expected to start left-handed pitcher Livan Moinelo, a star from the NPB, who will benefit from four days of rest between outings. Blue Jays reliever Yariel Rodriguez, who has already pitched 4.1 innings in two games, is likely to follow Moinelo.#world_baseball_classic #canada #cal_quantrill #cuba #livian_moinelo
