After participating in the 2014 Home Run Derby and starting for the National League in the All-Star Game, Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig was expected to take the next step in his young career last season.
However, Puig was unable to shake free from troublesome hamstrings that forced him to the disabled list on multiple occasions. As a result, the Cuban native was limited to a career-worst 79 games.
Puig managed to return at the end of the regular season but was a non-factor in two October games, two pinch-hit appearances and one start in the National League Division Series against the New York Mets.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman instructed the enigmatic outfielder to lose weight over the offseason under the notion, or hope, it would lead to Puig remaining healthy throughout 2016.
The 25 year old has a noticeably thinner frame and was among the multiple Dodgers position players to report early for Spring Training. Looking to bounce back from a down season, Puig is seeking the support of those who aided him through a stellar rookie campaign, according to Jorge L. Ortiz of USA TODAY Sports:
“I want (Bravo) to help me like he did in 2013,’’ Puig told USA TODAY Sports in Spanish. “I want to be with the people who were around me when I joined this team in 2013 so I can perform well on the field in 2016, as well or even better than in 2013.’’
Tim Bravo served as Puig’s mentor and translator in 2013. As for the work required to succeed, Puig intends to follow the lead of his teammates:
“I never liked working out much because everything came naturally to me, but this year I’ve had to train like all my teammates, who are always in the gym improving themselves,’’ he said. “If they do it, why shouldn’t I?’’
Despite the bad 2014 season, Puig garnered some trade interest, with the Chicago White Sox reportedly among the teams to contact the Dodgers on a trade. Los Angeles declined those overtures and have regularly stated their belief in Puig turning his fortunes around.
