Juan Soto trains at the Quisqueya Stadium

SANTO DOMINGO (EFE).— Dominican star of the New York Mets, Juan Soto, held a training session this Tuesday at the Quisqueya Juan Marichal Stadium, publicly showing his interest in participating in the current season of the Dominican Republic Professional Baseball League (LIDOM).

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Soto was seen practicing on the field under the supervision of the manager of the Tigres del Licey, Gilbert Gómez, and a member of the Mets’ staff. Images shared on social media showed the outfielder working in the park shared by Tigres and Leones del Escogido. The general manager of the Tigres del Licey, Audo Vicente, confirmed the presence of the stellar player during an interview on the program Diamante Deportivo. According to him, Soto has repeatedly expressed his desire to wear the blue uniform this winter, but the Mets have not yet approved his request. “Juan has requested permission four times in the last two weeks. Just 45 minutes ago we requested it again together and the answer is still no, although they told us they might communicate something to us between today and the next few days,” revealed Vicente.

The manager added that Soto expressed feeling in optimal physical condition to play, as long as the New York organization gives him the green light. In addition, he highlighted that the Licey’s own leader, Gilbert Gómez —recently appointed first base coach of the Mets—, has also managed with the Major League club the permission for the slugger to participate in the Dominican league. Soto, who last year signed the highest contract in the history of professional sports with a $760 million deal, had already requested to play at least ten games in the LIDOM. His motivation, according to Vicente, goes beyond the desire to connect with the fans. “Juan wants to play due to a family commitment, especially with his grandparents, who want to see him perform here in his country,” explained the blue manager, reinforcing that the player maintains his training routine at the Quisqueya Stadium while awaiting a definitive decision from the Mets.