Johnny Cueto still could pitch in the World Baseball Classic if the Dominican Republic advances to the tournament finals.

"If the third round comes around and they need me, then I'll cross that bridge when we come to it," Cueto said through an interpreter.

Cueto could not join the Dominican team when the tournament began because he was still building arm strength with the San Francisco Giants. His arrival at camp was stalled by delays in obtaining travel documentation for his father, Domingo. Cueto intended to provide optimum care for his father, who was ill, by bringing him to the United States.

"I know I need to pitch more," Cueto said. "I'm physically ready. My arm is not ready. They know if I don't go, they'll understand why. I would like to go. I know they'd like me to be there, but ... I'm sorry. I would like to represent my country."