Carlos Santana to Represent DR in the World Baseball Classic
The Diamondbacks have given the green light for veteran Dominican first baseman Carlos Santana to participate in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, despite the fact that the player will turn 40 in April and does not have insurance coverage due to his age. According to reports, insurers do not cover players over 37 years old with guaranteed contracts in the Major Leagues. However, the Arizona organization has decided to assume any financial risk in case Santana suffers an injury during the tournament. Santana recently signed a one-year, two-million-dollar contract with the Diamondbacks, an agreement that was made official this week. Unlike other teams that have chosen not to authorize their players’ participation in the international event for contractual reasons, Arizona has shown flexibility.Leadership and Team Chemistry
One of the key factors in this decision was the value that management places on Santana’s leadership within the clubhouse, especially due to the presence of his teammates Ketel Marte and Geraldo Perdomo, who will also play with the Dominican team. General manager Mike Hazen explained that the organization understands the importance of the tournament for Santana and considers it positive that he shares that experience with other team members. The management, led by owner Ken Kendrick and president Derrick Hall, backed the decision after internal conversations.The starting pitcher has already represented the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, participating in the 2013 edition, where the Dominican team was crowned champion undefeated, and also in 2017. For Santana, this opportunity represents more than baseball; it’s the chance to defend the colors of his country on an international stage, now as one of the most experienced players on the Dominican team.Santana, with 16 seasons in the Major Leagues and 335 career home runs, expressed his gratitude for the support received.
Carlos Santana
