While the Los Angeles Dodgers again have pulled away in the National League West standings, Julio Urías has been one of their biggest question marks due to inconsistent performance throughout the year.
Urías had put together back-to-back seasons of pitching at an ace-caliber level, only to regress from that in a contract year. He began to show improvement in August but struggled in consecutive outings, including over the weekend against the Atlanta Braves.
“I think that it’s not something that anyone expected. I don’t have an answer for it,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said of Urías’ struggles. “A person that we expect consistency from. You thought that he had a little traction on throwing the baseball well, then the last couple haven’t been great. And so all we can do is reset and get ready for the next one.”
Unfortunately, there is now a significant personal matter Urías is dealing with. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Urías was arrested on domestic violence charges by the Los Angeles Police Department:
Los Angeles Dodgers starter Julio Urías was arrested and charged with felony domestic violence charges late last night, an officer with the LAPD tells ESPN.
Urias, 27, was booked late Sunday and released early this morning on $50,000 bond.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) September 4, 2023
“We are aware of an incident involving Julio Urías,” the Dodgers said in a statement. “While we attempt to learn all the facts, he will not be traveling with the team. The organization has no further comment at this time.”
Urías previously was arrested in May 2019 on suspicion of domestic battery during an incident at the Beverly Center. He was placed on administrative leave amid an ongoing MLB investigation.
One month later, the L.A. prosecutors office announced they would not press charges against Urías under the conditions that he participate in a City Attorney hearing, commit no acts of violence against anyone, and successfully participate in and complete a 52-week domestic violence counseling program in person, and in a group setting.
However, MLB suspended Urías for 20 games for violating the league’s domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy. He did not return to the team until September of the 2019 season.
What’s next for Julio Urías after being arrested?
Although Urías posted bail, he presumably did not travel with the Dodgers on Monday morning for the start of their road trip. He may again be placed on leave while MLB is likely to investigate the situation and potentially impose a second suspension.
Considering Urías is a repeat offender, he figures to face a lengthy suspension that could significantly impact his career.
Thus far no player has been suspended twice for violating MLB’s joint domestic policy since it was implemented in 2015.
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