Nelson Cruz Wants To Continue Playing In 2023
2 years agoWashington Nationals designated hitter Nelson Cruz (eye) turned 42 in July and has seen a lack of power production in 2022 while also missing time with back tightness, shoulder soreness, a knee contusion and other minor injuries, including left-eye inflammation that continues to keep him out of the lineup on Monday. His OPS of .651 is his lowest mark since his first extended chance with the Texas Rangers in 2006. Many signs are pointing towards retirement after 18 MLB seasons, but Cruz isn't ready to walk away. If Cruz doesn't play again in the final three games this week, he will finish with only 10 homers and a team-best 64 RBI. His average launch angle of 7.2 was his lowest since Statcast began tracking in 2015. If Cruz returns in 2023, he'll likely be playing for a different team and will be a late-round target for power, at best.
Source: The Washington Post - Jesse Dougherty
Source: The Washington Post - Jesse Dougherty