It's Italy versus Mexico at 2:30 p.m. ET in Pool D action at the 2013 World Baseball Classic. Watch the online live stream for free as both teams are on the field.
Mexico and Italy don't really have much of a baseball background, soccer rules these countries' hearts. However, guys like Vinny Castilla and Mike Piazza gave these countries a reason to watch the game. Now, as 2013 rolls along, guys like Adrian Gonzalez of Mexico and Anthony Rizzo of Italy are once again hoping to attract fans from these countries.
Rizzo is yet a proven talent in the majors. However, as a highly touted prospect, in 87 games, he gave Chicago Cub fans and the baseball world a chance to see what he could provide. He hit 15 home runs driving in 48 runs in his short debut season and is expected to return and provide offense for the young Cubs team.
For Mexico's Gonzalez, it has been a tough two years for the first baseman. He enjoyed a great first year with the Boston Red Sox, struggled in his second year and then was traded back west to the Los Angeles Dodgers. They were expected to compete in the playoffs and unfortunately for them, they didn't.
The pitching matchup for today features John Mariotti, 28-year-old right hander, against Rodrigo Lopez, the 37-year-old righty who is still an active pitcher and currently in the Philadelphia Phillies' organization.
Click here to watch the live stream of Mexico vs. Italy as they play in Phoenix, Arizona.
