Diamondbacks give Santana green light for World Baseball Classic: Risk assumed

Carlos Santana to Represent DR in the World Baseball Classic

The Arizona 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 baseball players over 37 years old with guaranteed contracts in Major League Baseball. However, the Arizona organization has decided to assume any financial risk in the event that 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 restricted their players’ participation in the international event for contractual reasons, Arizona has shown flexibility with the experienced slugger.

Leadership and Chemistry in the Team

One of the key factors in this decision was the value that management places on Santana’s leadership within the locker room, especially with the presence of his teammates Ketel Marte and Geraldo Perdomo, who will also play with the Dominican team.

The organization understands the importance of the tournament for the player and considers it positive that he shares that experience with other team members.

Mike Hazen, General Manager

The directive, led by owner Ken Kendrick and president Derrick Hall, supported the decision after internal conversations. Santana, with 16 seasons in the Major Leagues and 335 home runs in his career, expressed his gratitude for the support. The veteran indicated that his wish was to represent his country, although he would respect any decision made by the club.

A Privilege with Experience

The starting pitcher has already worn the Dominican uniform in the World Baseball Classic, participating in the 2013 edition, when the Dominican Republic won the title undefeated, and also in 2017. Their situation contrasts with that of other figures who were unable to obtain insurance to compete in the tournament due to more important contractual commitments or recent medical histories. For Santana, this opportunity is more than baseball: it’s the chance to once again defend the colors of his country on an international stage, now as one of the most experienced players on the Dominican team.