Puig’s Contract May Be Void After Positive Covid-19 Test

Yasiel Puig with Cleveland Indians in 2019. Photo by Peter Joneleit/CSM/Shutterstock (10408031l)

Free-agent OF Yasiel Puig signed a contract with the Atlanta Braves earlier this week, pending a physical. After announcing on Friday that he tested positive for Covid-19, this may give Atlanta the right to cancel the contract, making Puig a free agent again.

Puig announced on social media that he is asymptomatic and feeling fine. “I will see you all very soon when I return to play ball,” he added on Twitter. Although it is likely that this just means there will be a small delay until he officially becomes a Brave, there is a small chance that Atlanta could not pick up his contract depending on when he receives two negative tests—MLB’s rule for when a player can return to action.

Puig played for the Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Indians in 2019, and batted .267 for both teams combined. He was one of the best players still available on the free agent market and can add above average power and a cannon of an arm for anyone looking to upgrade their outfield.