Blue Jays' Martin could shift to infield for Canada in WBC

Four years later, Russell Martin is finally getting his wish.

The Toronto Blue Jays catcher will represent Canada in the 2017 World Baseball Classic for the second time in his career, having last done so in 2009.

But Canadians shouldn't expect to see Martin crouching behind the plate once the tournament gets going in March. While speaking to reporters at baseball's Winter Meetings on Monday, it was revealed that Martin will most likely be an infielder for Canada.

"Pretty much, (Russell) can play wherever he wants to," Canada manager Ernie Whitt told Sportsnet's Mike Wilner. "If he wants to play some middle infield, we’re more than welcome to let him do that. With permission from the Jays, of course."

Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins told reporters that while he'll "worry" about Martin during the tournament, the position switch is being supported by the organization.

Martin famously demanded to play shortstop for Canada in 2013 - his reason for wanting to make the switch at the time, according to Bob Elliott of the Toronto Sun, was that "the WBC is supposed to be fun" - and chose to skip that year's edition when both his MLB team and Canadian officials denied his request.

Playing the infield for Canada in 2017 could help Martin stay fresh for the Blue Jays, who are relying on him to be the team's primary catcher, while still allowing him to represent his country. But the 33-year-old's participation will likely still give the team's front office some angst, as Martin struggled down the stretch in 2016 and appeared beaten up during the team's playoff run.

Martin does have a little bit of experience as an infielder, having played 19 games at third base and four at second during his 11-year big-league career.

Martin will face off against a familiar face at the WBC in his Blue Jays teammate Marcus Stroman, who's set to pitch for the United States; the bordering nations will play each other in the opening round March 12 at Marlins Park.

The Blue Jays also confirmed Monday that closer Roberto Osuna will play for Mexico in the WBC. He could be joined by teammates Aaron Sanchez and Marco Estrada, Sportsnet's Shi Davidi reported.