Javier Báez Suspended from World Baseball Classic: International Ban Details
Puerto Rico’s hopes of winning the World Baseball Classic (WBC) for the first time have been significantly impacted by the suspension of star infielder Javier Báez. Báez will not participate in the upcoming tournament due to a two-year international ban resulting from a positive cannabis test.
Details of Javier Báez’s Suspension
The two-year suspension was enacted after Báez tested positive for cannabis during the 2023 WBC. International play strictly regulates cannabis use, and this penalty prohibits him from participating until April 2026. The suspension officially starts in April 2024.
Impact on Team Puerto Rico
Báez, 33, has been a key player for Puerto Rico, representing the island in the 2017 and 2023 WBCs. In both of those tournaments, he earned a spot on the All-WBC team. His absence will be felt deeply as the team looks to improve its previous standings, having secured second place in 2017 and sixth place in 2023.
- Báez’s Achievements:
- Three-time All-Star
- 2018 National League MVP runner-up
During the 2023 season, Báez had a notable performance, hitting .257 with 12 home runs and 57 RBIs while playing for the Detroit Tigers. His team came within one victory of reaching the American League Championship Series (ALCS).
Puerto Rico’s Upcoming WBC Schedule
Puerto Rico is set to begin its WBC campaign on March 6 in San Juan against Colombia. The team will need to overcome both internal and external challenges, including the loss of Báez, to achieve its goal of championship victory.
