John Wetteland, Former Yankee World Series MVP, Arrested For Sexual Child Abuse

Former major league closer and 1996 World Series MVP John Wetteland was arrested Monday on a charge of sexual abuse. The 52-year-old pitcher was accused of continually sexually abusing a child under the age of 14, the Dallas Morning-News reported, citing Denton County Jail records. After posting a $25,000 bond, he was released from custody.

Yankees Closer molested child under age 14

In 12 MLB seasons, Wetteland was 48-45 with a 2.93 ERA and 330 saves. He was a pivotal member of the 1996 New York Yankees World Series championship team and was the series MVP. He’s also the Texas Rangers’ all-time saves leader and was inducted into the Rangers Hall of Fame. He played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Montreal Expos as well.

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After his playing career, Wetteland joined the Washington Nationals as a bullpen coach. He was fired from the job in 2006 for playing too many practical jokes, a reason which seems odd.  He then joined the Seattle Mariners and was hospitalized for a short period of time in 2009 for what the team thought was a mental health issue. Doctors found that the issue was related to heart and blood pressure issues.

Wetteland had also previously coached at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas. He also led Bible studies while there. He had no connection to the school at the time of his arrest.

WFAA reports that Wetteland’s wife, Rebecca, claims he is “100% innocent” and that his own children will testify to the statement.