Israel Bounced From World Baseball Classic
Israel lost to Spain and was eliminated from the World Baseball Classic Qualifier.
Sunday night’s game at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Fla., ended with a score of 9-7 in 10 innings. Spain will advance to the World Baseball Classic, which will be held in March.
Some 1,500 Jewish fans packed the stands for the final game of the modified double-elimination qualifier. Shwarma and falafel were sold alongside the traditional hot dogs, and the organ piped out “Hava Negilah” when a member of team Israel came up to bat.
Israel had won its first two games of the tournament: first against South Africa and second against Spain. Spain beat France to make it to the final game against Israel.
Most of the Israeli squad’s 28-man roster is comprised of Jewish minor leaguers. Former Major Leaguers Shawn Green and Gabe Kapler also are on the squad, as are three Israeli pitchers – Alon Leichman, Shlomo Lipetz and Dan Rothem.
The Israeli team is managed by former Major League catcher Brad Ausmus.
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