(Reuters) – Free agent outfielder Yasiel Puig on Friday said he had tested positive for COVID-19 and was quarantining but added that he was asymptomatic and felt “absolutely fine.”
The 29-year-old Cuban slugger was reportedly set to join the Atlanta Braves when the shortened 60-game season kicks off next week but the deal fell through following the test result, the Athletic reported.
“I would have never believed looking in the mirror that I had COVID-19,” Puig wrote on Twitter.
“I urge everyone to take this pandemic seriously, this can happen to anyone, even the healthiest athlete.
“Wear a mask, social distance, and follow your local protocols. Please take care of yourselves. I will see you all very soon when I return to play ball.”
Puig, who was an All-Star in 2014 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, said he would remain quarantined until he received two negative test results.
“When I return to the field, I will do so knowing that I will have one less hurdle to overcome,” he said.
(Reporting by Rory Carroll in Los Angeles; Editing by Ken Ferris)
