‘A huge honor’: Players embark on Israel tour

LAS VEGAS — If you will it, it is no dream.

Theodor Herzl wrote those words at the turn of the 20th century, when big thinkers merely dreamed about the creation of the state of Israel. Perhaps 10 American Jewish players — many of whom will play for Team Israel in Korea for the World Baseball Classic in March — didn’t have quite as lofty ambitions when they boarded a plane to Israel on Tuesday. They are hoping, however, to have a lasting impact on the country and in the efforts to grow baseball there.

“It’s surreal, to be in this position,” said pitcher Josh Zeid, who threw for Team Israel in its unsuccessful qualifying attempt for the 2012 WBC and in the successful bid this past fall in Brooklyn. “To be playing for Team Israel, it’s a huge honor. We can show Israel we really mean what we say: We want to win for Israel. So we’re excited for the opportunity to go there, and hopefully they’re happy to see us.”

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In addition to Zeid, others on this six-day tour include Ike Davis, Cody Decker, Ryan Lavarnway,  Jon Moscot, Sam Fuld and Ty Kelly — all players who’ve spent time in the big leagues. Minor Leaguers Corey Baker and Jeremy Bleich also made the trip, as well as former big leaguer Gabe Kapler, who is now the Dodgers’ farm director.

The players, accompanied by spouses, fiancees, friends and mothers, are also being joined by filmmakers from Ironbound Films, who will be shooting for a documentary film project titled “Heading Home.” There will be meetings with dignitaries, a visit to an air force base, exploration of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, …

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