Several Australian baseballers are in line to be signed up by US clubs when the MLB season opens at the SCG next month.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks will clash in a historic series on March 23 and 24, and the Australian side has the opportunity to play the two visiting teams in warm-up matches.
Australian coach Jon Deeble expects MLB scouts to swoop on his top talent, and said the Diamondbacks have already expressed interest in young Sydney pitcher Todd Van Steensel.
On Tuesday at the SCG, Deeble announced the first six members of his squad to play against the Dodgers and Diamondbacks on March 20 and 21.
Luke Hughes, Justin Huber, Brad Thomas, Brad Harman, Tim Kennelly and Stefan Welch, all with extensive US experience, will provide the foundation.
Deeble said Australia's dates against the Dodgers and Diamondbacks would provide global exposure for his players
"It's an opportunity for these guys. I would not be surprised (if players are signed)," said Deeble.
"Brad Thomas, he played in the major leagues, had two stints in Japan, played in Korea and Taiwan - I'll be surprised if he doesn't get picked up.
"This kid Todd Van Steensel, I think he'll get signed. I know the Diamondbacks want to have a look at him. He's (pitching) up to 96 miles an hour (154km/ph).
"In Australia, the opportunity to sign is better than anywhere in the world."
Australia have previously beaten the Seattle Mariners before a World Baseball Challenge, and Deeble said his side were capable of giving the Dodgers and Diamondbacks a run for their money.
