The Associated Press is reporting that a domestic abuse charge against Rockies shortstop Jose Reyes has been dismissed by a Hawaii judge. The judge gave prosecutors about two years to refile charges is Reyes’ wife cooperates.
That the charge would be dropped is not surprising, as that was expected to be the case a couple weeks ago, as Craig pointed out. Reyes’ wife refused to speak to prosecutors.
Reyes was arrested for allegedly assaulting his wife in Hawaii during the offseason. His wife told police she suffered injuries to her thigh, neck, and wrist.
Last year, Major League Baseball announced a new policy regarding domestic violence, giving commissioner Rob Manfred the authority to issue discipline “he believes is appropriate in light of the severity of the conduct.” That means, in other words, he can punish players even if official charges aren’t filed. Manfred suspended Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman for 30 games and declined to discipline Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig for their respective alleged domestic violence incidents. Reyes was placed on paid administrative leave until the resolution of his case.
Even if Reyes rejoins the Rockies, he may be relegated to a bench role as rookie shortstop Trevor Story has broken out in his first six games. The 23-year-old is hitting .333 and leads the majors with seven home runs and 12 RBI.