I agree with all that you're saying, and understand it. However, I would prefer to have it in November for several reasons. Now let me just state beforehand, that it really doesnt matter much to me either way. I am not so against having it now to the point that I would go and protest, and complain and whatnot. It's just that, if you asked me, I would probably have it in November. Reasons being,
- It brings more of a championship/big game atmosphere to the table, with the World Series just previously ending.
- It would appeal to fabs more, as it would provide more time for baseball. The fact that its during spring training now really doesnt provide it with it's own time period to be made a big deal out of. People would make a big deal out of spring training even if there was no WBC right now. I know thiat reason is hard to understand, but I really can't explain it any better. Sorry. But bascially what im trying to say is that, it just allows it to have it's own time frame, and allows fans to have more time to enjoy baseball. Spring Training is going to be February-March regardless, giving baseball popularity during that time period. Putting the WBC in November gives it it 's own time, and the fans another chance to enjoy baseball, and allow baseball popularity at a time of year when it's not normally popular. Having this every 4 years, plsu the MLB/NPB All Star Travel Series every 2 years, November would be as established a baseball month as February/March is.
- The players are all in better, game ready shape. People argue that they'll be worn out come November, but honestly, with th eexception of the players who participated in the World Seires, all the players will have had plenty of time to rest up, plus the time after the World Series until the start of the WBC to rest up. And the pitchers would have all that time to rest as well.
- It's an event held once every four years. If the player's have a problem with taking time out of their normal off-time once every four years to represent their country, then their probably not the players you would want respresenting it anyway. Although I cant see these Latin players having a problem with it. They have way too much pride and love to play baseball too much to complain about something like that.
..ok, so like I said, I would prefer a November WBC, but it really doesnt matter to me. I am satisfied with this as well.