This spring has not been a normal one for Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, as it began with him dealing with tendinitis in his right elbow, rendering him inactive for multiple weeks.
Due to the injury he wasn’t able to get many at-bats prior to joining for Team Mexico in the 2017 World Baseball Classic. Gonzalez appeared in three games with Mexico, who was eliminated from the first round despite defeating Venezuela, 11-9, in their final game of pool play.
Mexico was of the understanding a victory and margin of victory by at least two runs ensured a one-game playoff against Italy. MLB instead ruled that Venezuela would advance via the fewest runs allowed per defensive inning tiebreaker.
Gonzalez returned to Camelback Ranch on Wednesday still simmering over the decision, and said he will no longer participate in the World Baseball Classic.
With his focus back on the Dodgers and the 2017 season, Gonzalez has some work to do before being ready for Opening Day of the 2017 season on April 3. He has a combined two hits in 17 at-bats this spring between Cactus League play and the WBC.
According to David Vassegh of AM 570 L.A. Sports Radio, Gonzalez remains in good health and should be in the Dodgers lineup on Thursday:
Adrian Gonzalez will participate in camp today and expects to be back in #Dodgers lineup tomorrow. No issues with his right elbow.
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) March 15, 2017
Gonzalez has typically downplayed the importance over the number of at-bats he receives during the spring. Considering the elongated schedule, he figures to have ample time to see pitching in a live setting.
