Chicago Cubs: Addison Russell domestic violence allegations investigated by MLB
Chicago Cubs star shortstop Addison Russell has been accused of violently abusing his wife, Melisa, in front of their children.
Claims that Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell committed domestic violence and abuse will be investigated by Major League Baseball, per the Chicago Sun-Times.
On Instagram, Russell's wife Melisa made multiple posts alluding to a pending breakup of her and the Cubs star. In the comments on one of those now-deleted posts, a close friend of Melisa made reference to the alleged abuse by Russell:
"Hateful is cheating on your wife, mentally & physically abusing her. Melisa didn't want that out but I'll say it. He hit her. In front of [their children] Aiden & Mila. But let's worry about Melisa being 'hateful' she was loyal, forgiving & kind."
The posts and comments are now deleted from Melisa's Instagram page, however the Sun-Times story has images capturing the post and relevant comment.
In response, Major League Baseball has opened an investigation into the alleged incident, and will seek to interview Melisa and the commenter who leveled the specific accusations.
In 2015, MLB and the MLBPA agreed on a comprehensive domestic violence policy, wherein the Commissioner may enact investigations to determine acts of domestic violence or sexual assault. Commissioner Rob Manfred has the power to put a player on paid leave for up to seven days during an investigation, and has no minimum or maximum discipline parameters.
More from Call to the Pen
Addison Russell and the Chicago Cubs have declined to comment on the matter. Russell's performance on the field at this time is irrelevant.
