Puig hoping to play for Mexico at WBC

Team Mexico might have a surprise addition to its roster when they open the 2017 World Baseball Classic next March.

Mexico manger Edgar Gonzalez is hoping to pencil Yasiel Puig's name into his lineup when the tournament opens as they try to get the Cuban-born outfielder eligible for the roster.

"If we're able to get him permission and we're able to get all the paper work squared away then I would love to have him in the outfield with us to represent Mexico," Gonzalez told Jon Morosi of MLB Network. "Obviously he's proud to be a part of it."

Born in Cuba, Puig defected to Mexico in 2012 and became a legal resident so he would be eligible to sign in the majors. He eventually agreed to a seven-year, $42-million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers and said without landing in the country, he'd never have gotten the opportunity to live out his dream.

"That was the reason I am here right now," Puig said. "I signed in Mexico for the Dodgers and now I'm here. I want to (give) the favor back and play for Mexico."

Puig said that he would love to play for the Cuban national team, but is ineligible.

"I'm so happy to represent Mexico," Puig said. "I want to play baseball in the Classic. I want to play (for) Mexico or for my country Cuba but I (can't). I appreciate my friend (Gonzalez) giving me the opportunity."

Mexico, led by Puig's Dodger first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, opens the tournament in Pool D against Italy, Puerto Rico, and Venezuela.