Miami – Dominican Republic leader Albert Pujols has confirmed a significant absence for the team ahead of a hypothetical World Baseball Classic final. Left-handed pitcher Cristopher Sánchez will not be available due to restrictions imposed by his Major League organization, the Philadelphia Phillies. Pujols explained that the team must abide by the work plans established by the MLB organizations for their pitchers during the tournament. The goal is to win the Classic, but it would also be great to qualify the team for the Olympic Games. Despite this limitation, the Dominican leader made it clear that the main objective is to win the championship. However, he also highlighted the importance of achieving qualification for the Olympic Games as a significant achievement for the national team. Regarding right-handed pitcher Brayan Bello, Pujols reported that the player wanted to stay with the team. However, the Boston Red Sox requested that Bello comply with a work plan that included pitching outside the tournament.
The leader also referred to the performance of Sandy Alcántara, whom he considers a fundamental piece in the team’s pitching staff. According to Pujols, Alcántara could return to the mound if the Dominican Republic reaches the final, becoming a valuable option for the championship game. Dominican Republic continues its participation in the World Baseball Classic, aiming to obtain its second title in the history of the event, after the historic victory in 2013.Brayan didn’t want to leave, but his organization wanted him to fulfill a plan to launch tomorrow. We hope he returns to us on Sunday.
Albert Pujols
