The Los Angeles went through seven seasons with Yasiel Puig, and his impact, tenacity and quirky nature are all still talked about.
After his time in Los Angeles, Puig spent the 2019 season with both the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland, before also playing in the Dominican Winter League, Venezuelan Winter League, Mexican League, and Korean Baseball Organization.
The All-Star right fielder spoke to Nation’s Doug McCain about where he would like to finish his career and was asked if he would like to return to Los Angeles to finish his career.
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“Yes, I would like to be with Los Angeles again,” Puig said. “I love this city, I love the fans. It’s a great place and I’ve had my little career here in Los Angeles. I love the stadium, I love the great fans, the great city, the many different teams (I’ve been on), everything that comes with the . I want to live that part of my life again.”
Puig’s iconic 2013 rookie season was arguably his best in MLB.
He hit .319/.391/.534 with an OPS of .925, was runner-up to Rookie of the Year (first place being the late Jose Fernandez), and added 19 home runs and 42 RBIs.
Nicknamed “Wild Horse” by legendary announcer Vin Scully, he was known for his blistering speed and aggressive base-running techniques. Puig was born in Cienfuegos, Cuba, and attempted asylum in Mexico 13 times in order to become a legal resident and be eligible to sign an MLB contract.
Although a return to the high level is unexpected, Puig said he is open to signing a minor league contract if it means getting one last chance to play for the . Puig, 34, is hoping to get another chance at the major league level.
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Photo by Robert Hanahiro-USA TODAY Sports
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