Toronto’s Tournament 12 thriving in 4th year

TORONTO — Tournament 12 presented by New Era is entering its fourth go-round, and the event backed by the Blue Jays and commissioned by — and named for — Hall of Fame second baseman Roberto Alomar just keeps getting better.

The fourth annual showcase, bringing together more than 160 of Canada’s finest Draft and college-eligible players from across the country, kicked off with a combine day for upwards of 60 professional scouts and college coaches at Rogers Centre on Thursday. Players from each of the eight teams participating took turns running, throwing and getting in some batting practice before games begin on Friday.

“T12 is an opportunity for the young guys here in Canada to be seen by the scouts, from college and professional baseball, and hopefully we can make their dreams come true,” Alomar said. “This is our fourth year doing Tournament 12, and over 50 guys have been signed, going to play professionally and going to college, and I’m so glad that we have touched on this great opportunity.”

• Tournament 12 presented by New Era

As well as featuring the top names for the future of Canadian baseball, the tournament once again features some of the biggest in franchise history and beyond.

Returning alumni coaches joining Alomar in the dugouts, around the cage and in the bullpens this year are his father, Sandy, former Major League infielder Mario Diaz and fellow former Blue Jays George Bell, Lloyd Moseby, Tanyon Sturtze, Duane Ward and Devon White.

“I played with some of them, I played against them, and I’m so, so happy that when I call them all the time, they come here and they come through,” Alomar said. “I’m glad to have those guys behind me … they’re always there for me, and I can’t thank them enough.”

The 12-time All-Star’s long-time friend and fellow recipient of Toronto’s Level of Excellence honour, Carlos …

continue reading in source mlb.mlb.com