Stroman -- '17 USA MVP -- to rep Puerto Rico in '23
Cubs starting pitcher Marcus Stroman is returning to the World Baseball Classic in 2023. Although this time, he'll be wearing a new uniform.
Stroman, the 2017 tournament MVP for Team USA, officially committed to Puerto Rico's World Baseball Classic roster on Thursday. Official rosters will be released during the offseason.
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The 31-year-old posted a 2.35 ERA in three starts for Team USA in 2017. Stroman dominated Puerto Rico during the championship game, allowing just one hit in six innings during USA's 8-0 victory.
Stroman, whose mother is from Puerto Rico, said on Twitter in late July that he was "beyond excited to play for Team Puerto Rico."
After a tough April (6.98 ERA), the veteran right-hander has enjoyed a solid summer during his first season in Chicago. Stroman has posted a 3.28 ERA with 68 strikeouts and just 23 walks in 15 starts since May 1.
Stroman is the third player to officially commit to the Puerto Rican team, joining Twins hitters Carlos Correa and Jose Miranda.
The Puerto Rican team is looking to finally get over the hump in the WBC. The team has finished as the runner-up in two straight tournaments, falling in the final game to USA in 2017 and the Dominican Republic in '13.
Puerto Rico will play in Pool D at loanDepot Park from March 11-15 against the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Israel and a Qualifier winner.