Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Odubel Herrera has left the Tiburones de La Guaira of the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League in order to prepare himself 'physically, mentally and spiritually' for spring training.
Herrera was reportedly asked by the Phillies to stop playing ahead of his scheduled Feb. 1 flight back to the United States, according to Carlos Bautista of Meridiano.
On his official Facebook page, Herrera wrote:
To all my Fans, first of all I have no words to thank so much for the support and love I receive every day. It´s been a long year for me on Baseball, full of challenges and learning. I want to tell you all that today’s my final game of the winter season with my Glorious Sharks. It is time in which I need to prepare physically, mentally and spiritually, for my spring training in the Big League. My goal remains the same, go far in the majors and become a pride for my family, all my people and of course put up my country, Venezuela, thanks to all my fans for their support God Bless us all. #Springtrainingmode #MLB #Phillies #Eltorito #Venezuela
While Phillies pitchers and catchers are due to report on Feb. 18, the full squad is not required to appear in Clearwater, Florida, until five days later, according to CBSSports.com.
The Tiburones de La Guaira had two games remaining on its schedule: Jan. 19 and 20 both against the Tigres de Aragua. In 19 games this winter, Herrera hit .385 with two doubles, two home runs, 12 runs-batted-in and 10 walks over 78 at-bats.
Matt Rappa (@mattrappasports) is managing editor of Philliedelphia.com.
