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Price 'at peace' with opt-out decision despite missing World Series

Adam Glanzman / Major League Baseball / Getty

When the Los Angeles Dodgers step on the field against the Tampa Bay Rays for Game 1 of the World Series on Tuesday, veteran left-hander David Price will be watching from home.

Although he won't be helping the Dodgers try to capture their first title since 1988, the 35-year-old doesn't regret opting out of the 2020 season due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.

"I’m definitely missing it, but I'm at peace with my decision," Price said, according to Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY. "What I missed the most is the competition, being in the clubhouse, being in the dugout, picking someone up after a rough game or week, having them come over to my room, and forgetting baseball.

"But with a 3-year-old son, a 1-year-old daughter, I've got to watch them grow. That's a time I would have missed out on, and very thankful to be at home with them. I'm a fan. Those guys know I'm watching and pulling for them."

Price hasn't sat idly by this season after opting out and forfeiting $11.9 million of salary in the process. He still checks in with his teammates daily to offer guidance and advice.

"Everyone in a Dodger uniform wishes he was here," said Mookie Betts, who was part of the same trade that landed Price with the Dodgers from the Boston Red Sox. "We talk probably three or four times a week, he texts me after games, he pretty much texts the whole team."

Price is also connected to this year's World Series through the Rays, who he suited up for from 2008-14.

The southpaw, who was an integral part of the last Tampa team to reach the World Series in 2008, admitted he's been rooting for them this postseason, but his allegiance in the big series sits with the Dodgers.

"We're paying his checks, at least most of his checks," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. "I hope he's rooting for us."

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