During Friday’s Zoom press conference, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was asked – point-blank – if anyone has elected to opt-out of the COVID-19-shortened 2020 season. Here was his answer verbatim:

“You know, with the opt-outs, we’re talking… I’ve talked about it before, that every player has the right to look at the situation individually and with regard to their families, and so we’ve had conversations with all the players and listening to their thoughts, concerns; some of them more concerned than others.

“So we’re going to continue to have those conversations. So right now, there’s nothing to report. But, you know, again, if anyone chooses to go that route, I know that myself and the organization, their teammates would support them.”

On Saturday morning, the Dodgers skipper was again asked if anyone had opted out, and he again used the “conversations” line, ending by saying that there have been no opt-outs.

There is now.

Shortly after 2 p.m. (PT), recently acquired five-time All-Star and former AL Cy Young award-winner David Price posted on Twitter that he was indeed opting out of the 2020 season with this statement:

“After considerable thought and discussion with my family and the Dodgers, I have decided it is in the best interest of my health and my family’s health for me to not play this season.

“I will miss my teammates and will be cheering for them throughout the season and on to a World Series victory. I’m sorry I won’t be playing for you this year, but look forward to representing you next year.

“Stay safe, be well, and be kind. And Go Dodgers!

“Love, David Price”

There is zero doubt, none whatsoever, that the 34-year-old Murfreesboro, TN native and 2007 first-round draft pick by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays out of Vanderbilt University has the full support of every one of his Dodger teammates, coaches, and his manager.

Godspeed to you, David. See you next Spring!

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Addendum: The Dodgers subsequently issued this statement:

“The Dodgers fully support David’s decision to sit out the 2020 season. We have been in constant contact with David and we understand how much this deliberation weighed on him and his family. We know he’ll be rooting hard for the club every day and look forward to having him back with us in 2021.”

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