CLEARWATER, Fla. - Seven years ago, Panama's president called Carlos Ruiz to ask why he would not play for his country. It was 2009, and Ruiz thought it best to stay in Phillies camp. The catcher later reconsidered.
Now, at age 37, Ruiz will savor the chance in March to help Panama qualify for the 2017 World Baseball Classic. His career in its twilight, Ruiz needed no presidential convincing this time.
"It gives me a chance to represent my country," Ruiz said. "Bring them back to the World Baseball Classic. I don't know how much longer I'm going to play.