Rangers' Cordero to miss Classic

02/23/2006
SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Closer Francisco Cordero has decided against pitching for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic because of concerns about his right shoulder.
Cordero, an All-Star with the Rangers in 2004, would have been a key member of the Dominican Republic bullpen. But he has had some soreness in his shoulder in the first week of Spring Training and that has left him concerned.
"I don't think I'll be ready to pitch," Cordero said. "I'm very disappointed. I was happy and looking forward to representing my country, but I don't think I'll be ready. I've had a little setback in my shoulder.
"In the past few years, I've been a slow starter in Spring Training and not been able to pitch the whole time. That's what's happening now and I'm not going to be ready.
Cordero had 37 saves for the Rangers last year and 49 in 2004.
"If I go, I want to do a great job," Cordero said. "But I don't think I'll be the pitcher they need. My concern is being ready when the season starts. It's my career on the line."

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/