San Francisco Giants manager Gabe Kapler did not go in-depth about Buster Posey’s absence.
There is already a small group of MLB players who have decided to opt out of playing in the shortened 2020 season. Then there are others, such as San Francisco Giants catcher Buster Posey, who are still on the fence about playing.
Posey showed up at Giants camp last week, but has reportedly headed home due to what has been deemed a personal issue.
Giants skipper Gabe Kapler did not shed much light on the situation in a recent comment that can best be described as mysterious.
Kapler, asked if Posey would return tomorrow or if his situation will require him to be away for an undetermined time: "The only way to answer this question is to say this is a personal issue Buster should address. That's as deep as I can go into it."
— Andrew Baggarly (@extrabaggs) July 9, 2020
Buster Posey’s 2020 status remains unknown.
The question seemed straightforward enough to get an answer with a bit more clarity. Instead, Kapler fueled the speculation about Posey opting out with his non-answer.
It is hard to fault Posey, or any player for that matter, if he plans to stay at home for the safety of himself and his family. One thing to give him credit for is the fact he has been open and honest about taking some time to make what would end up being a major decision.
“I’m gonna watch what’s going on & keep communicating w/my wife & pay attention to what’s going on around me here at the ballpark & what’s going on in county.”
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) July 4, 2020
More Buster Posey on possibly opting out of the 2020 season. #SFGiants pic.twitter.com/8jxqOyDCY0
The Giants are not expected to be contenders in 2020. That was true before the season went to 60 games and may help make the decision easier for someone like Posey. It is not like he is considering sitting out during a promising season.
The safety of everyone involved is most important during what will be a unique 2020 MLB season. Kapler’s comments keep Posey’s true intentions in the dark for now, but the catcher’s ultimate decision must be made soon as the season is set to begin in two weeks.