Report: Cueto won't pitch in 1st round of WBC
It appears the Dominican Republic will be without yet another key member of its 28-man roster at the World Baseball Classic, as San Francisco Giants starter Johnny Cueto isn't expected to pitch in the first round, according to Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com.
Cueto's absence could extend past the semifinals and finals, Sanchez noted, adding that he's expected to join the Giants at their complex in Arizona no later than Friday.
The 31-year-old right-hander has yet to join his teammates in spring training as he continues to tend to his ill father in his native Dominican Republic. Cueto has reportedly been working on bringing his father to the U.S., and general manager Bobby Evans confirmed recently that it would be resolved soon.
As for his participation in the WBC, it's become increasingly likely Cueto won't pitch very much, if at all, though he has expressed his desire to appear in the tournament. He has attempted to stay in game shape during his absence, providing coaches with video of him pitching.
Team Dominican Republic lost first baseman Hanley Ramirez on Thursday, after he bowed out of the tournament with an injured shoulder.
Its first game is against Canada on March 9.