Yasiel Puig is aiming to prove that he can still be a valuable asset on a major league roster, and he is hoping to better his game by playing winter ball during the offseason.
As J.P. Hoornstra of the Orange County Register noted on Thursday, Puig wants to play in the Dominican Republic this winter. The 25-year-old has not played winter ball since 2012, when he appeared in 20 Puerto Rican Winter League games for Mayaguez.
“I want to get ready for next year,” Puig said of his desire to play in a winter league.
The Los Angeles Dodgers would need to sign off on Puig playing winter ball, and the outfielder has yet to discuss it with the team. Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the front office will “keep an open mind” and evaluate each player’s situation when the season ends.
Puig, who was recently called back up to the Dodgers from Triple-A, is hitting just .256 with 11 home runs and .43 RBI this season. His skills have regressed since he batted .296 in his first major league season back in 2014, and many believe a lack of focus has a lot to do with it.
It’s possible the Dodgers will look to trade Puig this winter, though this report makes it seem like that could be difficult.
