What’s been an eventful career with the Los Angeles Dodgers took another twist nearly two weeks ago, when the Wasserman agency announced they no longer served as representation for Yasiel Puig. The split was said to be due to behavioral issues.
The news was considered sudden, and details have not been provided by Puig or his former agency. The 27-year-old was among the several position players to report alongside Dodgers pitchers and catchers for the start of Spring Training this week.
In terms of timing, Puig is eligible for salary arbitration after this season, and can become a free agent next season. The Dodgers signed the Cuban native to a seven-year, $42 million contract in June 2012.
In November 2016, Puig decided against pursuing early arbitration. It didn’t come as much of a surprise, as he was coming off another injury-plagued, subpar season.
Although not having an agent could serve as a distraction, Puig told Andy McCullough of the L.A. Times that his focus solely is on the field and preparing for the regular season:
“I’m not even worried about that,” Puig said. “If I don’t hit, no agent is ever going to get me any contract or money.”
“I’m solo for now,” Puig said. “I’m really just focusing on spring training and being 100% for the season. Getting ready for [Feb. 23], when the games start, and just making sure I’m 100% for the season.”
Puig bounced back from a 2017 campaign that saw him get demoted to Triple-A Oklahoma City after the Dodgers were unable to trade him at the non-waiver deadline. He rejoined the team one month later, but as a backup to Josh Reddick.
Puig reclaimed his starting job last season, making strides both on and off the field. Another productive year should earn Puig interest from sports agents and leave him on track to ink another lucrative contract. Whether with the Dodgers or another team.
