World Baseball Classic: Dark Horse Players to Watch for Team USA

Team USA has never won the World Baseball Classic as of now, but that could all change this season thanks to a small handful of players. This year's roster is unlike those of previous seasons in that it's not absolutely star-studded.

Rather, there is depth and balance on all ends and Team USA is all the better as a result. No one player is going to outshine the other, and each man will know his role almost perfectly.

As a result, Team USA is going to be in a solid position to make a run for the 2013 WBC Championship, and all thanks to under-the-radar players who could step into the spotlight and proceed to blow the roof off.

Ben Zobrist

When I think of Ben Zobrist, I think of the ultimate renaissance man. The man can play both the outfield and practically every infield position, and it's a wonder we haven't seen his Tampa Bay Rays use him as a pitcher yet.

Last season, Zobrist hit .270 with 20 home runs and 74 RBI, plus a remarkable OBP of .377.

Adding to Zobrist's dark horse nature is that he's a switch-hitter, which always makes a player more of a threat. With his tremendous plate patience and versatility in the field, he is definitely going to be a player to watch as the WBC progresses.

Adam Jones

Jones is one of the most underrated outfielders in the game, and appearing in the WBC will show fans just what they're missing in overlooking the Baltimore Orioles' center fielder. Not only is Jones a fine defensive outfielder, but he has two All-Star Games under his belt and is one of the MLB's leading up-and-comers at age 27.

Appearing in every game for the Orioles last season, Jones hit .287 with 32 home runs and 82 RBI.

Players like him may seem a dime a dozen but mark my words: Jones is a special player and will need to be great in order for Team USA to have a chance at making the championship round.

Ryan Vogelsong

After five years away from MLB, Vogelsong made a triumphant return in 2011 and proved last season that he was here to stay. Playing for the defending champion San Francisco Giants, the right-hander went 14-9 with a 3.37 ERA and 1.22 WHIP.

His velocity isn't overwhelming and he isn't getting any younger at age 35, but Vogelsong's versatility on the mound and ability to change speeds makes him a diamond in the rough for Team USA. Along with R.A. Dickey and Derek Holland, plus a bevy of other fine young pitchers, he's sure to impress on the mound and constantly fool opposing hitters.

If he can be effective regularly, be it as a starter or out of the bullpen, then Team USA's chances of winning it all will greatly increase.