Report: MLB investigating domestic violence accusation involving Cubs' Addison Russell

By Chris Bahr
Published

Major League Baseball is investigating an allegation of domestic violence involving Cubs shortstop Addison Russell, the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

In a series of Instagram posts on Wednesday night, Russell’s wife, Melisa, hinted that the couple was breaking up. In a comment on one of those posts, a woman identified as a friend of Melisa wrote that Russell “mentally & physically” abused her and “hit her.” The posts have since been deleted.

When contacted by the Sun-Times, a Cubs official said the team is looking into the situation.

Russell released this statement on Thursday afternoon: “Any allegation I have abused my wife is false and hurtful. For the well-being of my family, I’ll have no further comment.”

https://twitter.com/SLGreenberg/status/872911725594542081

Russell, 23, is struggling this season – after making his first All-Star Game in 2016. In 54 games, he is hitting .209/.291/.335 with three homers and 19 RBI.

https://twitter.com/CarrieMuskat/status/872919356614823941