Los Angeles Dodgers: Yasiel Puig dropped by agents
In an unexpected move, Los Angeles outfielder Yasiel Puig was suddenly dropped by the Wasserman Agency for incidents that happened off the field.
Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig is certainly an intriguing talent. A five year veteran, Puig has the pure ability on the diamond to amaze, his excellent power, speed, and throwing arm capable of making highlight plays at any moment. However, along with that talent, Puig has maturity issues, leading to his banishment to the minors in 2016, as well as several arrests earlier in his career. Yet, after a strong 2017 campaign, those issues seemed to be behind him.
That is, until Wednesday. In a surprise move, Puig’s agents, the Wasserman Agency, announced they are terminating their partnership. While the reasons why are unclear, it was announced that the decision came down to behavior issues.
Wasserman’s decision to terminate its partnership with Yasiel Puig is behavior-related, source tells SB Nation. Unclear what exactly transpired.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) February 7, 2018
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On the positive side, these issues do not appear as though they will warrant punishment from the Dodgers or Major League Baseball. And yet, as Puig is still in arbitration, he will be receiving another solid pay raise next offseason before entering the free agent market while still in his prime.
Even though free agency, as proven this offseason, is not a given for an astronomical salary any longer, a reasonable facsimile of his 2017 campaign would likely net a solid return. Last year, Puig produced a solid .263/.346/.487 batting line, with a career best 28 homers and 15 steals. He continued his strong defense, with his 11 runs saved in right ranking third in the National League.
There is no question that Puig is a talented player, one that could well be a prized free agent. The problem comes from those behavior concerns which have dogged him in the past. He had certainly appeared to have put those behind him, but this latest incident leaves a lot more questions than answers.
Next: Dodgers could be better in 2018
Los Angeles Dodgers Yasiel Pug apparently had another incident. While it is not enough to warrant punishment from the Dodgers or Major League Baseball, it has led to Puig losing his representation.