Find MASN on your cable or satellite provider.

The Nationals have been unable to contact Perez and manager Manny Acta told the media after workouts today that "We are trying to get a hold of him and find out about him being here. I'm sure that guys don't want to miss the first reporting date, but until the 22nd, we don't make a big deal out of it."

February 22nd is the mandatory reporting date for all major-leaguers who are not participating in the World Baseball Classic. Any players who haven't reported by then could be disciplined by their respective clubs.

According to Enrique Rojas of ESPNdeportes.com, Perez regrets his verbal approval to the team's offer of a minor league contract two weeks ago and would not sign it unless it is improved.

"I thought it best and I prefer to sit in my house if the Nationals do not show more appreciation for my work," Perez said from Santo Domingo.

"Appreciate my work means to increase the value of the contract and guarantee it. I will not accept any minor league contracts with no safeguards. I instructed my agent to report my position to the Nationals," Perez said.

The veteran left-hander went 7-12 with a 4.34 ERA in 30 starts for the Nationals last season and was the starter on Opening Day in 2008.

"The first time I became aware that something was happening was when ESPNdeportes.com contacted me to talk about the issue," Acta said. "The team informed me that there is a contract between the Nationals and Odalis in the commissioner's office."

The article also said that Perez is not negotiating with any other teams.

"I will play in the World Classic for the Dominican Republic and show everybody that I'm in great shape," Perez said. "I hope to find a team that values me, otherwise I'll go home."