Padres' Headley to be added to U.S. roster if team advances in WBC

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If the United States loses its elimination game against Puerto Rico on Friday night, then the point is moot. But the Americans have found their replacement for the injured David Wright: Padres third baseman Chase Headley.

CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman reports that team officials contacted Headley on Thursday night, and he accepted their offer to replace Wright. Before Headley joins Team USA, however, the United States must beat Puerto Rico and Wright must indeed be ruled out because of his ribcage injury (the latter is all but certain).

As replacements go, Headley is a nifty one. He's coming off a season in which he batted .286/.376/.498 with 31 homers despite playing his home games in run-suppressing Petco Park. Headley also profiles as an elite defender at the hot corner. As well, Headley's presence on the roster means that the decidedly sub-optimal Willie Bloomquist can be returned to the bench.

Of course, first Team USA has to reach the semifinal round.

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