For the second time in a month, the possibility of a Carlos Correa–Francisco Lindor infield has been erased. Citing logistical concerns and family reasons, the Twins and their star shortstop mutually announced Monday that Correa has withdrawn from participating for Puerto Rico in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
The news wipes out the fascinating possibility for the left side of Puerto Rico’s infield to be manned by Correa and Lindor, an intriguing storyline after a potential long-term pairing with the Mets dissolved a month ago.
Same as Puerto Rico did for the 2017 WBC, Correa — who on Jan. 11 signed a six-year, $200 million contract with the Twins — was expected to move from shortstop to third base to play alongside Lindor. It would have been the pair’s first chance to play together after Correa’s 12-year, $315 million agreement with Lindor’s Mets fell apart after the team had concerns about Correa’s surgically repaired right ankle. The San Francisco Giants also voiced health concerns about Correa, wiping out a 13-year, $350 million agreement.
Twins officials insist this situation isn’t nearly as complicated.
Puerto Rico is scheduled to open WBC play against Nicaragua in Miami on March 11, the day before Correa’s wife, Daniella, is due with the…
