The Toronto Maple Leafs baseball club has made a major splash by signing former Los Angeles Dodgers star Yasiel Puig, moving from Chavez Ravine to Christie Pits. The Cuban outfielder, who burst onto the MLB scene in 2013, has now joined the Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) team in what is reportedly the largest contract in league history, according to the Toronto Star. Details of the deal have not been disclosed.
Puig's MLB Career and Downfall
Puig made an immediate impact in his rookie season, batting .319 with 19 home runs, finishing second in National League Rookie of the Year voting. He earned an All-Star selection in his second season, but his performance declined thereafter. After being traded to the Cincinnati Reds in 2018 and then to Cleveland in 2019, he entered free agency and went unsigned by MLB clubs. He continued his career in the KBO and Mexican League.
Maple Leafs' Confidence in Puig
Maple Leafs CEO Keith Stein expressed enthusiasm about the signing, stating, "We think he's the most exciting player in men's baseball who's not playing in MLB right now, and we think he's better than a lot of guys who are in MLB. So we can't believe our good fortune." Stein emphasized the team's commitment to providing high-level baseball free of charge at Domenico Field at Christie Pits, hoping Puig will draw fans and deliver great entertainment.
Off-Field Issues and Due Diligence
Puig's career has been marred by off-field controversies, including allegations of sexual assault from 2017 and 2018, though he was never charged or suspended by MLB. In 2021, he was found guilty in U.S. federal court of obstruction of justice and lying to federal officials related to an illegal gambling operation. Stein noted that the team conducted extensive diligence and believes these issues have been resolved. "The issues have been dealt with by the justice system... We think that he is really on the right track in his personal life," Stein said, adding that Puig deserves a chance to play and contribute to the community.
Previous Historic Signings
Last year, the Maple Leafs made history by signing Ayami Sato, the league's first female player. Although Sato posted a 1-0 record with a 14.04 ERA over 13 appearances, she was drafted by Los Angeles in the Women's Professional Baseball League and will not return this season. The Maple Leafs are set to open their 2026 season at home against the Kitchener Panthers on May 10.
