Freddie Freeman ready to shine for Team Canada at 2023 World Baseball Classic

The coveted World Baseball Classic (WBC) is making a return this March after a six-year hiatus.

Bigger than ever, the tournament, which has now been expanded to 20 teams, will see multiple countries vie for the championship. While favorites include the Japanese, Americans, Dominicans, and Puerto Ricans, smaller contingents like the Canadians, Cubans, and South Koreans will look to stamp their authority on the competition.

"We will have a lot of fun, hopefully we can win some ball games... It's a fun tournament." @FreddieFreeman5 is ready to lead Team Canada, even against some of his Dodgers teammates. @Dodgers | @baseballcanada | #WorldBaseballClassic

Los Angeles Dodgers and Canadian first baseman Freddie Freeman caught up with MLB Network yesterday and discussed his team's chances in the tournament. Freddie, who's making his second appearance in the competition, cannot wait to get started and represent his hometown Canada.

"We will have a lot of fun, hopefully we can win some ball games... It's a fun tournament," Freddie was quoted saying.

Freeman, who lost his mom when he was 10 years old, will use this opportunity to play with Canada to keep the memory of his mom alive.

"It means a lot. I think some people know my story but you know, it means a little bit extra to me. Obviously, both my parents were born and raised in Canada. My mom was born in Toronto, and obviously, my mom passed away when I was 10 years old, and this is a way to keep her memory alive. She was so instrumental in my life, so this is just a cool way," Freeman said.

Freeman concluded by saying that while he fears facing Dodgers teammate Julio Arias, he can't wait to take him on in the competition.

World Baseball Classic to kick off on March 7

The 2023 World Baseball Classic is due to start on March 7 and wind up on March 21. The tournament, which was originally slated to take place in 2021, was shifted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The tournament also expanded from 16 to 20 national teams this year, with all teams that participated in the 2017 edition automatically qualifying, plus four additional spots.

While the Americans, Japanese, and Dominicans remain strong favorites, there are multiple other teams with a shout.

Who do you think will walk away with the coveted World Baseball Classic trophy? Let us know in the comments.