By Kang Seung-woo
Staff Reporter
The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) has unveiled its preliminary roster for the second World Baseball Classic (WBC).
Manager Kim In-sik, who led South Korea to the semifinals in the inaugural contest in 2006 after beating the big leaguer-studded United States and eventual champion Japan, selected 45 players including seven playing overseas _ Park Chan-ho, Lee Seung-yeop, Lim Chang-yong, Lee Hye-chun, Choo Shin-soo, Baek Cha-seung and Lee Byung-kyu.
Free agent Kim Byung-hyun, who did not pitch in the 2008 season, was also included.
``Lee Seung-yeop said he would not play at the WBC to focus on his next season in Japan, but the technical committee have included him just in case he changes his mind,'' Kim said.
As for San Diego Padres pitcher Baek, who acquired American citizenship in 2005, Kim said, ``Although I have not contacted him yet, the WBC allows a player to represent his country of birth.''
``If he plays for his birth country, I think he will have a chance to build reputation in Korea.''
The 45-member roster is comprised of 19 pitchers, four catchers, 13 infielders and nine outfielders.
The deadline for the final entry is Feb. 22, 2009, but the KBO plans to announce it on Dec. 26.