MLB Star Julio Urías Suspended for Violating Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Child Abuse Policy

Julio Urías, once celebrated as a World Series champion with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2020, has been suspended through this year's All-Star break for violating MLB's domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy. Commissioner Rob Manfred confirmed the disciplinary action on Friday.

Urías, a prominent left-handed pitcher, has not played since September 1, 2023. His agent, Scott Boras, declined to release any statements on the matter. The suspension comes after Urías pleaded no contest in May to one count of misdemeanor domestic battery—a penalty marking his second violation under MLB’s policy, following a 20-game suspension back in 2019.

In a troubling incident outside BMO Stadium in Los Angeles on September 3, 2023, Urías was arrested after a physical altercation was reported to authorities. Initially charged with a felony count of corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant, he was placed on administrative leave by MLB on September 6. Ultimately, four additional misdemeanor charges were dropped, and Urías was sentenced to 36 months of summary probation, 30 days of community labor, and a 52-week domestic violence counseling course.

Additional penalties include a domestic violence fund fee, restitution to the victim, prohibition on weapons, and adherence to a protective order. MLB stated that Urías agreed to undergo evaluation by the joint policy board established by MLB and the players association and comply with all recommendations.

Regarding the decision, Commissioner Manfred stated, "Having reviewed all of the available evidence, I have concluded that Mr. Urías violated our policy and that discipline is appropriate."

Urías' suspension and legal troubles come at a pivotal moment in his career. Following the 2023 World Series, he became a free agent after his one-year, $4.7 million contract expired. This marks a sharp fall for the pitcher, who was once heralded as a star in the MLB. Over eight seasons with the Dodgers, Urías racked up a 60-25 record with a 3.11 ERA, leading the National League with a 2.16 ERA in 2022 and playing a critical role in the Dodgers' 2020 World Series victory.

It's worth noting that this isn’t Urías’ first brush with controversy. In May 2019, he was arrested on suspicion of domestic battery. Although suspended by MLB, he avoided prosecution by completing a 52-week domestic violence counseling program.

For someone who once dazzled on the mound, these repeated violations paint a grim picture of a career overshadowed by off-field controversies. While his achievements in baseball can't be understated—seriously, he carried the Dodgers through some of their toughest postseason moments—it appears his legacy may now be defined more by his legal troubles than his pitching prowess.