Angels’ Juan Rivera backs out of World Baseball Classic

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TEMPE, Ariz. -- Yet another Angels player has backed out of the World Baseball Classic. Outfielder Juan Rivera, who originally planned to play for Venezuela, has decided not to play, and he will report to spring training with the Angels next week.

Rivera, who signed a three-year, $12.75-million contract this off-season, missed most of 2007 because of a broken leg, which he suffered in a Venezuelan winter-league game. But Manager Mike Scioscia said today that Rivera’s health had nothing to do with his decision.

‘He’s fine,’ Scioscia said. ‘He just wants to make sure he has enough time to get ready for the season.’

Rivera replaced struggling outfielder Gary Matthews Jr. in late June of 2008 and hit .246 with 12 homers and 45 runs batted in last season. His best year with the Angels was in 2006, when he hit .310 with 23 homers and 85 RBIs. He is expected to split time this season between the corner outfield spots and designated hitter.

-- Mike DiGiovanna