Sore ribs keep David Wright from USA-Dom. Repub. WBC game

David Wright leads all players with 10 runs batted in so far during this year's World Baseball Classic.

Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

MIAMI -- David Wright was scratched from the World Baseball Classic game Thursday against the Dominican Republic because of sore ribs, and U.S. manager Joe Torre isn't expecting him to rejoin the lineup.

Wright said he was optimistic about playing again for the Americans. But Torre ruled him out of Friday night's game against Puerto Rico and said Wright was doubtful beyond that.

"I'm not counting on it," Torre said. "Whatever he has is going to take more than a few days, I would think."

The New York Mets third baseman said the injury had bothered him for about a week, and the Mets were aware of the issue. He was pulled from the lineup shortly before the game after USA Baseball officials consulted with the Mets.

Torre agreed with the decision.

"I told him nothing's more important than your welfare," Torre said. "Chances are nothing would have happened, but I don't like `chances are."'

Wright said he'll be examined Friday by a Mets doctor at the team's complex in Port St. Lucie, Fla.

"I wanted to play tonight, but I understand the decision," Wright said.

Wright led all players in the event with 10 RBIs after four games and was hitting .438 (7 for 16). He was replaced at third base by Willie Bloomquist, and the U.S. team lost to the Dominican Republic 3-1.