One of the great things about upsets is the sheer joy of reading articles like this.
The Netherlands’ chances of advancing were slim to begin with, but when Jair Jurrjens chose not to participate, it left them with virtually no chance.
In under 24 hours they have gone from virtual no chance to one win away from advancing. Now lets look at the other end of the spectrum:
Even without Rodriguez, though, the Dominican team is loaded for manager Felipe Alou, who will field a lineup that still boasts the likes of Hanley Ramirez, Jose Reyes, David Ortiz and Robinson Cano.
Ya think they might be calling for his head in the Dominican tonight. They certainly will be if they lose tomorrow afternoon against Panama.
Albert Pujols, Alfonso Soriano and Vladimir Guerrero all opted to skip the event.
You think those guys are going to hear about it if the Dominicans are bounced in round one? I think it will be rather nasty.
As it was a clutch situation I don’t know if A-Rod would have made a difference.