Former MLB all-star Yasiel Puig made a spectacular debut for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the Canadian Baseball League on Sunday, hitting two home runs in an 8-6 victory over the Kitchener Panthers at Christie Pits.
Puig, who signed a record-breaking contract with the Leafs last month, thrilled fans with his power at the plate. After walking in his first at-bat, he launched a home run to left field in his second plate appearance, giving the Leafs a 4-1 lead. In the fifth inning, he added a solo home run to left, finishing the game 2-for-2 with two home runs, four RBIs, and two walks.
Why Yasiel Puig Is a Big Deal
Puig burst onto the MLB scene in 2013 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, batting .319 with 19 home runs and finishing second in National League Rookie of the Year voting. He earned an All-Star selection in 2014 but saw his production decline thereafter. After trades to the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians, he entered free agency and went unsigned by MLB clubs, later playing in the KBO and Mexican League.
Controversial Past
Despite his on-field success, Puig has faced off-field issues. In 2021, he was accused of a 2018 sexual assault, and it was revealed he had settled two 2017 sexual assault cases. He was not charged or suspended by MLB. Earlier this year, Puig was found guilty in U.S. federal court of obstruction of justice and lying to federal officials about an illegal gambling operation. He faces a court date on May 26 and could receive up to 20 years in prison, though actual punishment is expected to be less.
Team Response
Maple Leafs CEO Keith Stein stated that the team conducted extensive due diligence before signing Puig. “We carried out extensive diligence. The issues have been dealt with by the justice system. We are focused on putting the best talent on the field that we can be proud of. He certainly deserves a chance to play professional baseball,” Stein said.
