GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Right-hander Hiram Burgos returned to Brewers camp on Friday with gold hair and a silver medal.
Burgos' bleach-blond look was a hint that he played in the World Baseball Classic for Team Puerto Rico, which reached the finals before falling to the United States. Burgos pitched three times in the tournament, including an inning in Wednesday's 8-0 loss to the U.S.
"I was blessed to be back over there," said Burgos, who also pitched in the 2013 Classic. "It was an unbelievable two weeks, and something we did for the island, too. To have their support, it was something special for us.
"We have some problems right now in Puerto Rico with crime and [the economy]. This can be something that helps lift baseball back home."
Some members of Team Puerto Rico traveled back to the island on Thursday, and they were given a hero's welcome. One of them, former Brewers Minor Leaguer Jose De La Torre, posted a photo on Twitter that showed a huge crowd.

Burgos and another Brewers pitcher, Jorge Lopez, traveled back to Phoenix instead to resume preparing for the regular season. Lopez was optioned to the Minor Leagues during his absence from Brewers camp, so he reported directly to that complex upon his return Friday.
Burgos is likely to begin the season in Triple-A Colorado Springs' starting rotation.
"We have to tip the cap to [Team USA starter] Marcus Stroman," said Burgos, referring to the Blue Jays right-hander who worked six scoreless innings in the Classic final. "He pitched an unbelievable game. He brought his 'A' game.
"If we have the silver medal, we are still champions for our island. I think we did really well for them."