Marlins Lindstrom Classic bound

Marlins closer Matt Lindstrom has accepted an invitation to pitch for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.

"When they called me, I was elated. I wanted to do it. It's an honor, obviously," Lindstrom said in a phone interview on Thursday. "It's looking pretty good for me so far to participate. I'll be in the bullpen with guys like Joe Nathan, and I'll be able to pick their brains a little bit."

Lindstrom, who turns 29 in February, will head into Spring Training with the Marlins on Feb. 14 at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Fla. The right-hander, who possesses a 100 mph fastball, is the frontrunner to replace Kevin Gregg as Florida's closer.

Lindstrom will be the second Marlin to be selected to Team USA. In 2006, Dontrelle Willis represented his country.

In a setup role in 2008, Lindstrom was 3-3 with a 3.14 ERA. In 57 1/3 innings, he struck out 43. He took over as Florida's closer in September when Gregg was injured, and he converted all five of his save chances.Gregg was traded to the Cubs in November, clearing the closer spot for Lindstrom.

-- Joe Frisaro