Insurance worries for players in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC) have put Team Puerto Rico’s participation in jeopardy. Team officials mentioned that they might pull out after finding out that eight to ten players won’t have insurance coverage.
Joey Sola, the team’s operations manager, stated, “We might consider that option,” indicating that finding substitute players is vital. This situation is particularly alarming as Puerto Rico’s roster is limited due to a smaller player pool, making it tough to find adequate replacements.
Among the players affected is Francisco Lindor, the captain and New York Mets shortstop, who can’t play due to his recent elbow surgeries. Injuries in previous tournaments, notably to players like Jose Altuve and Edwin Díaz, have raised concerns among teams about coverage. Since then, the cost of insurance has surged, and rules have tightened.
Other players, such as Carlos Correa, José Berríos, and Victor Caratini, are also on the list of those denied coverage. While Correa and Berríos are under review, the uncertainty is causing frustration. Sola noted that waiting to learn about player eligibility just days before roster submissions is “a little bit unfair.”
The league’s insurance, brokered by National Financial Partners, covers player salaries if they get hurt during the tournament. However, players not cleared for insurance can still participate if their MLB team takes on the financial risk. For instance, Miguel Cabrera played in the last WBC without insurance. In contrast, the Dodgers opted out for Clayton Kershaw.
Social media has been buzzing with discontent regarding insurance criteria. Players are noticing discrepancies in how different leagues and teams manage their coverage. Additional concerns arise as players above 37 years old, like Miguel Rojas, struggle with insurance requirements.
In a broader context, while many top players are sidelined, fans and players express their desire for international competition. The insurance dilemma highlights the complexities of balancing player safety and team representation. As Puerto Rico gears up for its games against Canada, Colombia, Cuba, and Panama, everyone is watching closely.
Despite the hurdles, players remain eager to represent their countries. The WBC is not just a tournament; it’s about pride and passion. The conversations around insurance highlight a growing issue in sports, where financial decisions often clash with athletes’ dreams.
For further insights into player health insurance in sports, you can check out NPR’s coverage on recent athlete experiences and challenges.
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Houston Astros, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, MLB
