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Shane Victorino Called Joe Torre to Ask for Spot on U.S. World Baseball Classic Team, Joins Ryan Braun, R.A. Dickey

While stars like Matt Kemp and Mike Trout are skipping out on the World Baseball Classic, Shane Victorino couldn’t volunteer fast enough.

The Red Sox’ newest outfielder is said to have called U.S. team manager Joe Torre personally to offer his services to the club for the March tournament, according to CBS Sports’ Jon Heyman. Torre did in fact accept the offer, and Victorino is expected to serve as a utility outfielder for Team USA.

And the reason Victorino isn’t expected to earn a starting job is because the team is so stacked. The official roster won’t be announced until Thursday, but some names are already starting to emerge. Mark Teixeira, Joe Mauer, Brandon Phillips, Ryan Braun, Andy Pettite, Craig Kimbrel, Adam Jones, David Wright and reigning National League Cy Young winner R.A. Dickey are all expected to be a part of a deep team.

“After I got the chance to play a few years ago, I knew I wanted to participate again,” said Wright. “The biggest reason is obviously the opportunity to represent your country and wear the uniform with USA across the chest. It’s an incredible feeling.”