Cubs, MLB Looking Into Domestic Violence Allegation About Addison Russell

The MLB is investigating an allegation regarding domestic abuse on Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell, looking into the situation as early as Thursday morning.

Russell’s wife, Melisa, hinted at the situation in a series of Instagram posts Wednesday, suggesting a breakup between the two after just one year of marriage. In the posts, there was mention of mental and physical abuse by a commenter who is believed to be a close friend of Melisa’s. The posts have since been deleted.

Cubs officials, as well as the MLB, are now actively looking into the situation. The MLB will look to speak with Melisa and the friend as part of the league’s reconstructed domestic abuse policy before coming to any further conclusions. A Cubs spokesman declined to comment on the issue any further, and there is no active investigation within the Chicago Police Department. The incident is also seldom known within the organization and team clubhouse.

Russell, 23, a 2016 All-Star, has otherwise struggled in 2017, batting .209/.291/.335 in 54 games this season, with three home runs and 19 RBI’s. Russell is now sharing the starting shortstop role with Javy Baez.