Stiff neck might keep Peralta out of Classic

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- Joel Peralta continues to be limited in what activities he can participate in due to a stiff neck.

Though Peralta played catch Friday, the Rays' setup man does not anticipate throwing a bullpen session for several days, which he now believes will prevent him from participating in the World Baseball Classic.

"The chances don't look good," Peralta said.

Peralta, who was supposed to pitch for the Dominican Republic, planned on talking to the team's general manager, former Major Leaguer Moises Alou, on Friday. While Peralta doesn't think he'll participate, the right-hander might end up trying to play if Team Dominican Republic decides to hold a spot open for him.