When Panama opens the World Baseball Classic on Friday, Logan Allen will be on the mound.
The Cleveland Guardians’ left-hander has turned himself into a quality MLB pitcher, and now he gets an awesome chance to play in the WBC.
On paper, Allen’s name doesn’t suggest someone with Panamanian heritage, but that’s exactly what he’s getting the chance to represent.
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How is Logan Allen eligible for Panama in WBC?
Allen’s mother was born in Panama.
Pam, according to MLB.com, was “born and raised in the Canal Zone in the Republic of Panama.” She moved to the U.S. in her 20s.
Allen also still has extended family in Panama.
“She’s pumped,” the southpaw told MLB.com about his mother’s excitement level for the tournament.
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Allen himself was born in Florida, but he’s proud of his heritage.
The opening games for the Panama team are played in Puerto Rico, and Allen is expecting to have family there.
“Playing in Puerto Rico makes the travel a little bit easier for the family,” Allen told MLB.com. “I’m really excited. It should be a lot of fun.”
Allen has made 73 starts for Cleveland over the past three seasons.
Now, he starts for Panama.
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