Nelson Cruz is one of the many power bats that are available on the free agent market as the offseason progresses.
Cruz signed a one-year contract with the Washington Nationals prior to the start of the 2022 season.
The contract included a mutual option, which ultimately was not exercised.
Now, his status for the 2023 season is uncertain.
However, according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the slugger will serve as general manager of the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic and also plans on continuing as an active player during the event in March.
Cruz recently underwent successful eye surgery to address inflammation.
Nelson Cruz will serve as general manager for the Dominican Republic and plans to continue as an active player at the 2023 @WBCBaseball. Cruz, 42, recently underwent successful eye surgery to address inflammation. @MLBNetwork @MLB 🇩🇴
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 15, 2022
Cruz To Play In WBC
Cruz has yet to be signed by a new team this offseason, but it appears that he plans to play in 2023, at least in the Classic.
During the regular season, Cruz .234 with 10 home runs and 64 RBI.
He also had an OPS of .651, hit 16 doubles, and tallied 151 total bases.
With his option being declined, Cruz could find himself with a number of potential suitors who may be looking for a designated hitter or outfield bat.
The New York Yankees could be a team that targets him if they lose Aaron Judge.
If he remains unsigned, the Classic could turn into an opportunity to prove himself before the start of the 2023 season.
At the very least, he’ll remain active and will take part in the Classic, as well as serve as the Dominican Republic’s general manager.
Cruz has still yet to sign elsewhere, however, and it is possible that his playing days could be over after the Classic.
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