After a standout campaign with the Toronto Blue Jays and hours after being announced as one of the winners of the National Sports Award, Roberto Osuna assured that he will fulfill another dream: representing Mexico in the World Baseball Classic.
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"I am willing and it would be an honor for me to represent Mexico in the World Baseball Classic, especially in our own country," commented Osuna.
Next week, Mexico will play a couple of games in Japan as part of their preparation for the Classic. Osuna will not be part of that selection, but he affirmed that he has received the approval from the Blue Jays to play in the Classic, where Mexico will host Group C, along with Italy, Puerto Rico, and Venezuela.
The games in this group will take place from March 9 to 12 in Guadalajara.
"My organization has let me know that they support my decision and that I won't have any issues playing for Mexico in this tournament, so now I just have to wait," revealed the 21-year-old closer. "I didn't want to go on the Japan tour because I wanted to rest a bit more, but I will be ready to play for my country in March."
Osuna finished the 2016 season established as one of the most reliable relievers in the Major Leagues. His help would be valuable for Mexico's aspirations in the Classic.
After finishing the season with a record of 4-3, 36 saves, 82 strikeouts, and a 2.68 ERA in 74 innings, Osuna was announced yesterday as the winner of the National Sports Award. This year, the pitcher from Sinaloa was the only professional athlete to be honored.
Osuna is not sure if he will be able to attend the ceremony where the awards will be presented.
"I feel very happy and grateful to everyone who supported me. It is a great honor to receive this award because it is one of the most important ones," commented Osuna. "My plans are to be in Mexico on November 20 with President Enrique Peña Nieto, hopefully it will be possible because my schedule is a bit tight."