Braves lefty Garcia decides he won’t play in World Baseball Classic

Braves left-hander Jaime Garcia has decided to skip the World Baseball Classic, ESPN.com reported Wednesday night.

Garcia said earlier this spring he was considered playing in the international tournament. He declined to reveal his decision after pitching two innings against the Yankees Wednesday night but ESPN said Garcia notified the Mexican team that he will not play in the WBC. Garcia cited his injury history and his recent arrival to the Braves as factors in his decision, according to ESPN.

The Braves acquired Garcia, 30, in a December trade with the Cardinals. He’s struggled with injuries for much of his career and his 30 starts last season were his most since 2011.