Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
David Price is putting his family first, and the Dodgers’ chances this season will take a hit.
The star lefty who was traded from Boston to Los Angeles in February will not debut with his new team this season, becoming the biggest star to opt out of a season that will be attempted to be played alongside the coronavirus.
“After considerable thought and discussion with my family and the Dodgers, I have decided it is in the best interest of my health and my family’s health for me to not play this season,” Price announced on Instagram. “I will miss my teammates and will be cheering for them throughout the season and on to a World Series victory. I’m sorry I won’t be playing for you this year, but look forward to representing you next year.
“Stay safe, be well, and be kind. And Go Dodgers!”
The Dodgers still will be strong, having built up so much depth, and have a rotation that boasts Clayton Kershaw, Walker Buehler, Julio Urias and Alex Wood. Yet, in these twisted times, the distant playoff chances of the Giants just crept up.
Others who have opted out include Arizona’s Mike Leake, Washington’s Ryan Zimmerman and Joe Ross, Colorado’s Ian Desmond and Tyson Ross, who was recently released by the Giants.