HARRISBURG -- Former Lampeter-Strasburg star Jeff Bianchi has committed to play for Team Italy at the World Baseball Classic.
Bianchi, an infielder, played in 33 games for the Brewers last season, batting .188 with three homers and nine RBI.
Whether it helps or hurts his chances of making Milwaukee's major league team this spring remains to be seen. Bianchi will battle for a spot as a backup infielder.
Bianchi is one of 11 Brewers players scheduled to compete at the event, including star outfielder Ryan Braun, who will suit up for Team USA.
"The greater good is being served here," assistant general manager Gord Ash said, according to Reuters. "The timing this year is going to work out OK. The players will report to camp on Feb. 12 and will be there until March 1 (when they join their respective WBC teams). They will get in seven (exhibition) games before they go and will be back again at the end."
Italy and the U.S.A team will each compete in Pool D of the event and will play games in Arizona, starting March 7.
