Neo wishes he could dodge bullets the way that Team USA did last night. While pundits analyzed the rules of the World Baseball Classic, and determined that Team USA would be eliminated if Mexico won by a score of 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1, no one seemed to consider the possibility that Mexico might beat the ever-loving snot out of Canada (which they did, 9-1), and that that would put Team USA back in control of its own destiny. All they have to do is beat a South African team that gave up 10 runs against Canada and 11 runs against Mexico. Oh, and South Africa has to face Roger Clemens. Seems like a done deal, right?
Not so fast, punk. South Africa has absolutely nothing to lose, while Team USA has everything to lose, which means the American hitters could press too much and psyche themselves out while the South Africans just go in a hackin’, and whatever happens happens. Now, I’m not saying that I think South Africa is going to pull the mother of all upsets, but you know, even the Royals win sometimes. Team USA would be wise to adopt Ben Stein’s tactic of taking all challenges seriously, because if they lose to South Africa, they will look seriously bad.
Update: After two innings, Team USA is winning 10-0. Whew.
