Julio Urías’ Future in Baseball Remains Uncertain as Investigation Continues
MLB Investigates Domestic Violence Allegations Against Julio Urías
Scott Boras, one of baseball’s most prominent agents, expressed his concerns about Major League Baseball’s handling of the draft during his annual session with reporters at the MLB general manager meetings on Wednesday. However, the tone shifted when the topic of Julio Urías was brought up.
This week was supposed to mark the beginning of teams’ pursuit of Urías in free agency. The left-handed pitcher was expected to be one of the most sought-after players in a weak free-agent class. However, his arrest in September on suspicion of domestic violence for the second time in four years changed everything. The once-projected jackpot vanished, and Urías’ career as a Dodger came to an end, leaving his future in baseball uncertain.
The Exposition Park Department of Public Safety, the agency that arrested Urías, has not yet presented the case to the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office, according to a spokesperson from the district attorney’s office. The office will review the police investigation and determine whether to file charges.
As part of MLB’s domestic violence policy, Urías, 27, is required to interview with the league during its investigation. However, since the case is still under investigation and Urías could potentially face charges, the league has not been able to conduct the interview.
“We have not heard anything from anyone involved in enforcement, so we’re just waiting,” said Boras.
Even if Urías is not charged with any crimes, Commissioner Rob Manfred has the authority to suspend him under the league’s policy. This was the case in May 2019 when Urías was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor domestic violence. Charges were dropped in June, but MLB still handed him a 20-game suspension in August.
Prior to his arrest, Urías was unlikely to re-sign with the Dodgers. Now, the question remains whether he will sign with any of the other 29 clubs and continue playing in the majors.
The incident leading to Urías’ arrest occurred outside of BMO Stadium after he attended a game between LAFC and Inter Miami. He was released on $50,000 bond a few hours later and was subsequently placed on paid administrative leave. His administrative leave concluded after the season ended, making him a free agent eligible to sign with any club.
Urías is not the only former Dodgers starting pitcher facing a clouded future due to allegations. Trevor Bauer, who pitched in Japan last season, is also seeking a return to the majors in 2024.
Times staff writer Bill Shaikin contributed to this story.