SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) - The manager of the Dominican Republic team is still hoping Albert Pujols can play in the World Baseball Classic despite his elbow surgery.
The St. Louis star had a 25-minute outpatient procedure Monday to relieve nerve irritation in his right elbow. Pujols is expected to be ready for spring training.Pujols hit .357 with 37 home runs and 116 RBIs. Dominican manager Stan Javier said he recently spoke with Cardinals first baseman.
"He feels optimistic and positive and will do everything possible to join the team," Javier told The Associated Press by e-mail.
The Dominican Republic team will face Puerto Rico, Holland and Panama next March. It came in third place in last year's tournament.
