As of Wednesday afternoon, all signs are pointing towards San Diego Padres star Juan Soto playing the World Baseball Classic with the Dominican Republic.
Padres insider Kevin Acee reported on Tuesday that Soto is expected to join Team Dominican Republic later this week prior to Saturday’s game.
The outfielder reportedly ran on Tuesday at Padres camp and says that he’s feeling 100 percent physically after dealing with some lingering calf soreness over the last few days.
The Padres are wise to try and avoid any risks, but it looks like the player will be participating in the international tournament.
His participation, however, will likely depend on how he looks and feels after a “B” game on Thursday.
“Meanwhile, Juan Soto is slated to appear in a B game tomorrow, Bob Melvin said. If all goes well, he could join Team Dominican Republic ahead of their WBC pool-play opener on Saturday. (Crucial game against Venezuela.)” Padres insider AJ Cassavell tweeted.
Meanwhile, Juan Soto is slated to appear in a B game tomorrow, Bob Melvin said. If all goes well, he could join Team Dominican Republic ahead of their WBC pool-play opener on Saturday. (Crucial game against Venezuela.)
— AJ Cassavell (@AJCassavell) March 8, 2023
If Soto reports no pain, he will likely be available for Dominican manager Rodney Linares against Venezuela on Saturday.
The Dominican skipper can certainly use Soto’s power (27 homers in 2022) and on-base prowess (.401 OBP) against a tough Venezuelan team, but it’s unlikely he is in the starting lineup with just a day or two in camp.
We will see how the situations unfolds.
For now, Soto will be a member of the Dominican roster that will look for their second WBC title, after winning it in 2013.
The clash against Venezuela will be pivotal and can heavily influence each country’s chances to get to the second round.
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