Earlier this week, it appeared that Yasiel Puig had found a new home when he reportedly agreed to sign a free agent contract with the Atlanta Braves.
Taking to social media on Friday, however, the 2014 All-Star revealed that he has contracted the coronavirus (COVID-19) and will remain a free agent while he recovers.
"I am so sorry to share with my fans, friends, and family who follow me and who really support me, that I have just been notified that I have tested positive for COVID-19," Puig wrote in a message posted to his Instagram account. "Although I tested positive, I am asymptomatic, and I feel absolutely fine. I will be quarantined until I receive two negative test results, which I hope will arrive shortly.
"I am sad that this has happened, but I believe that everything is in God's timing and that my return to MLB will happen in His perfect plan and timing for me. When I return to the field, I will do so knowing that I will have one less hurdle to overcome."
Puig went on to encourage his followers to take the pandemic seriously.
"I would have never believed looking in the mirror that I had COVID-19. 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."
Once considered one of the most exciting young players in baseball, the Indians acquired Puig from the Cincinnati Reds in a three-way deal that also included the San Diego Padres at last year's trade deadline. In 49 games in Cleveland, he hit for a .297 batting average (.800 OPS), but hit just 2 home runs while tallying 23 RBIs.