Julio Rodriguez has high expectations for Team Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic: "You're playing for everything you represent"

Julio Rodriguez understands how important the World Baseball Classic is, and he can't wait for the tournament to start. He'll be a part of a stacked Dominican Republic team.

Speaking about the talent surrounding his team, Julio Rodriguez couldn't hold back his excitement. Representing the Dominican Republic in baseball is special. It means the world to the players.

"You're playing for everything you represent," said Julio Rodriguez.

It's no secret how important baseball is in this part of the world. Baseball is a game of opportunity for these guys. It's a way to change not only their lives, but the lives of their families.

It's nothing out of the ordinary for young kids in the Dominican Republic to go and live with a baseball coach until they sign at 16 years old. A lot of kids in that area dedicate their entire lives to the sport in hopes of a better life for their families.

This is why the game means so much to people in this area. For some people, it's their only hope.

Julio Rodriguez and Team Dominican Republic will be a force in this World Baseball Classic

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To start off, the team has Francisco Mejia and Gary Sanchez behind the dish. While that's not world-shattering, it's still a very capable catching duo.

The team shines with its infield presence. They have Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Manny Machado, Jeremy Pena, Ketel Marte, Willy Adames, Robinson Cano, Jean Segura, Nelson Cruz and Rafael Devers.

It's as strong an infield as this tournament will see. Opposing pitchers aren't going to be able to slack-off with these sluggers.

Their outfield is just as strong, too. It consists of Julio Rodriguez, Juan Soto, Teoscar Hernandez, and Eloy Jimenez. The four players can change the momentum of the game with one swing of the bat.

Their pitching staff consists of shutdown members. They'll be led by National League Cy Young award winner Sandy Alcantara, followed by Cristian Javier, and Johnny Cueto.

The team has the roster to make a deep run into the World Baseball Classic. If they win the tournament this year, they'll tie Samurai Japan as the only team to have won multiple World Baseball Classic championships.

It will be interesting to see if Julio Rodriguez and Team Dominican Republic have what it takes to go all the way.