Rockies right fielder Brad Hawpe wants to wear red, white and blue this spring.
Hawpe’s agent confirmed today that Hawpe has accepted an invitation to play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. Last week, catcher Chris Iannetta accepted, giving the Rockies two players on the Team USA list of players of interest.
Playing for Team USA could boost Hawpe’s profile. Although he’s never been voted to the all-star team, Hawpe has put up solid numbers in recent seasons. In 2008, which was the beginning of a three-year, $17 million contract, Hawpe hit .283 with 25 home runs and 85 RBIs.
Team USA’s 45-man provisional roster is due Jan. 19, and the final 28-man roster, which includes 13 pitchers, must be set by Feb. 24. The WBC begins with workouts starting March 2 and opening-round games beginning March 7.
Patrick Saunders: 303-954-1428 or psaunders@denverpost.com
