Howard, Hamels, Lidge to skip WBC

Dec 20, 2008 - 4:30 PM PHILADELPHIA (Ticker) - Cole Hamels, Brad Lidge and Ryan Howard of the World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies have decided against playing in the World Baseball Classic, according to a published report Saturday.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that the Phillies trio informed Team USA that they don't want to be considered for roster spots.

"(Howard) feels like he needs to spend his time in the spring getting ready for the season so he gets off to a better start," Team USA manager Davey Johnson told the Inquirer.

Hamels was the World Series MVP, Lidge converted all 48 of his saves chances, including postseason, and Howard belted 48 homers in leading the Phillies to their first championship since 1980.