Miami: South Korea manager Ryu Ji-hyun announced that St. Louis Cardinals reliever Riley O'Brien will not be participating in the World Baseball Classic (WBC) for the national team. O'Brien, who has a Korean mother and an American father, informed the team of his inability to participate due to his current physical condition. According to Yonhap News Agency, after South Korea's initial practice session in Miami, Ryu revealed that O'Brien communicated his decision, citing physical unpreparedness. Despite being initially chosen as the team's closer in February, O'Brien was sidelined due to a calf injury but had returned to play in two spring training games for the Cardinals. During these games, he allowed one earned run over 1 2/3 innings, issued five walks, and did not record any strikeouts. Ryu shared that O'Brien was considered a replacement for left-hander Son Ju-young, who is recovering from elbow inflammation. O'Brien's participation would have been logistically convenient, as he was already in Florida for spring training. However, with O'Brien's withdrawal and no replacement for Son, the team will proceed with 14 pitchers instead of the planned 15. Despite this, Ryu expressed confidence in the team's ability to cope with the shortage, highlighting the unity and determination of the players. South Korea, as Pool C's runner-up, is set to face the Pool D winner in the quarterfinals, which will be decided between the Dominican Republic and Venezuela. South Korea is considered an underdog against either team, both of which boast significant major league talent. Despite challenges, South Korea showcased resilience in their final Pool C game, securing a 7-2 victory over Australia after a rocky start in the tournament.