Cubs' Addison Russell Suspended For 40 Games Over Abuse Claims

CHICAGO — Cubs' shortstop Addison Russell has been suspended for 40 games without pay after a Major League Baseball investigation into allegations of domestic abuse. In a statement released Wednesday, MLB Commissioner Robert Manfred, Jr., said Russell was suspended for violating the league's Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy.

Russell "will participate in a confidential and comprehensive evaluation and treatment program supervised by the Joint Policy Board," the statement read.

Russell's suspension is retroactive to Sept. 21, and he's agreed not to appeal the suspension, the league said.

"Having reviewed all of the available evidence, I have concluded that Mr. Russell violated the Policy and should be subject to discipline in the form of an unpaid suspension that will cover 40 games," Manfred said in the statement.

Melisa Reidy, Russell's ex-wife, accused a former spouse of domestic abuse and infidelity in a Sept. 19 blog post linked to her Instagram account. She didn't name Russell in the post, but the All-Star infielder had faced similar allegations last year over social media.

Russell denied the claims in 2017, and the couple filed for divorce in late June of that year.

More Patch Coverage:

• Cubs' Addison Russell On Leave After Ex's Domestic Abuse Claims
• Russell's Wife Won't Talk To League About Abuse Claims; Files For Divorce
• Russell Denies Domestic Abuse Allegations

Photo by Jeff Curry | Getty Images