DETROIT -- The World Baseball Classic doesn't take center stage in baseball until next spring, but for Warwick Saupold, his time on the international stage starts now. The Tigers' Minor League right-hander will be part of Team Australia's pitching staff next week, when it takes on three other Pacific countries in a qualifier tournament for a spot in next spring's main event.
It's a massive honor for the 26-year-old hurler, an under-the-radar international signing by Far East scouts Glenn Williams and Kevin Hooker four years ago. It's also a chance for him to showcase what he can do in bigger competitions.