VIERA, Fla. (AP) -Outfielder Elijah Dukes missed the Washington Nationals’ final Florida exhibition game Thursday because he had to deal with some non-baseball matters that the team did not specify.
Dukes, who had sat out recent games because of a hamstring injury, was to travel separately from the team up to Washington later Thursday.
“Dukes is finishing some off-the-field stuff that he had to get taken care of that were on the schedule before he got traded over here,” manager Manny Acta said. “So we’re killing two birds with one shot – were resting his ‘hammy’ and he’s taking care of his off-the-field stuff.”
The Nationals acquired Dukes from Tampa Bay in the offseason for a minor league pitcher. He had various arrests and suspensions during his time with the Rays.
With Wily Mo Pena on the 15-day disabled list, Dukes is slated to begin the season as Washington’s starting left fielder.
Pena said his recovery from a tear in a left side muscle is going better than expected. He was hurt March 13 and was initially ruled out for about four weeks.
“I want to come back quick,” he said.
He’ll start taking batting practice next week, then play in minor league games in Florida.
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