In just a few weeks, pitchers and catchers will start reporting to MLB training camps. That means the seven-month marathon of MLB betting is set to take over our lives again soon. Before the big leagues get going, though, we can relish the chance to bet on the 2009 World Baseball Classic.

Part of what makes World Baseball Classic betting so interesting is that it gives special opportunities to players who have something to prove, whether they’re total unknowns unveiling bizarre techniques or major leaguers looking to bounce back after down years. Let’s check out the top five players to watch in the World Baseball Classic lines this season.

5. Alex Rios, Puerto Rico

We all know the lanky, metrosexual outfielder has oodles of talent – including a strong arm, great speed and a keen fashion sense – but the power is downright inconsistent. He broke out with 24 long balls in 2007 and even pushed Vlad Guerrero hard in the Home-Run Derby before slipping to 15 homers last year. Maybe World Baseball Classic betting will help his 6’5” frame get that power stroke going early.

4. Jason Bay, Canada

From underrated to overrated to…properly rated? Jason Bay was an unknown star in Pittsburgh before a nightmarish 2007 had people leaping off his bandwagon faster than Toronto Raptors fans. He bounced back in a big way last year and, upon being dealt to Boston, started mashing like never before. Look for Bay to pace Canada with some big power numbers in the World Baseball Classic lines.

3. Evan Longoria, USA

If you’re looking for Desperate Housewives jokes, stop reading. It’s not that funny, folks. You know what else isn’t funny? Evan Longoria’s frightening talent. His blend of raw power and phenomenal defense is the American League’s answer to David Wright. I wouldn’t make a sportsbook bet on a sophomore slump for Longoria. In fact, methinks he’ll start crushing the ball in March and lead the USA to a deep tournament run.

2. Francisco Liriano, Dominican Republic

Remember him? Two years ago he teamed with Johan Santana to form a devastating one-two punch in the Twins’ rotation. Now Santana is a Met and Liriano is trying to get his career back on track after Tommy John surgery. Online betting fans shouldn’t write him off just yet; he was ridiculously dominant in 2007 (12-3, 2.19) and pitchers like Erik Bedard, A.J. Burnett and Kerry Wood are living proof that Tommy John surgery doesn’t have to end careers. The 2009 WBC will be the first stop on Liriano’s comeback tour.

1. Yu Darvish, Japan

The fascination with the “next big thing” from the Japanese pitching crop never ends, but can you blame anyone? With their unorthodox style and cloudy scouting reports, Japanese imports almost always confuse the hell out of hitters when they first reach North American soil, even if the success isn’t sustained. Darvish, the 22-year-old, 6’5” righty of Japanese-Iranian descent, is ready to take the WBC by storm. He’s heralded as Japan’s top pitcher and was rumored to be the apple of the New York Yankees’ eye this month. Don’t be surprised if he pulls out a Dice-K-esque performance. What’s with the last name though? Sounds more this than this.