Dodgers pull the plug on Freddie Freeman for Team Canada, WBC

An issue with a hamstring was enough for the Los Angeles Dodgers to pull the plug on Freddie Freeman’s time at the World Baseball Classic.

Freddie Freeman is done as a part of Team Canada in World Baseball Classic after Dodgers decision

With Freeman leaving Tuesday’s game against Colombia after just two at-bats because of a hamstring issue (described initially as tightness), the Dodgers have decided that ensuring the 33-year-old former MVP is healthy for the start of the season trumps national pride and participation in the World Baseball Classic.

Canada and Mexico are scheduled to play on Wednesday afternoon with a trip to the WBC quarterfinals on the line. If the Canadians win, they assure themselves of a spot in the next round, but Freeman’s spot on Team Canada if that happens is anything but assured.

Wednesday is the last day for play in Pool C in Phoenix, where the Canadians have been impressive, scoring big victories over Great Britain and Colombia to set up a winner-move-on match against Mexico.

Freeman is just 2-for-10 in the tournament with an RBI, but has still been the face for Team Canada before and during the tournament. Now, Canada will have to rely on others to step up, including St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Tyler O’Neill, who is slashing .636/.714/.818 in 11 at-bats, providing plenty of hope for Cardinals fans about the season to come.

The Dodgers signed Freeman last offseason to a six-year/$162 million deal, and are counting on him as the team looks to once again reach the postseason in what will likely be a tough National League West race with the San Diego Padres.