The New York Yankees pitcher Jimmy Cordero has been handed a season-long suspension by Major League Baseball (MLB) Commissioner Robert D. Manfred Jr. for violating the league’s Joint Policy on Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Child Abuse. The announcement has sent shockwaves through the baseball community, emphasizing the seriousness with which MLB addresses such offenses.
The 31-year-old reliever had emerged as a crucial asset for the Yankees’ bullpen, making a strong comeback after his absence from the majors since 2020. In 31 appearances this season, Cordero displayed remarkable prowess, striking out 34 batters and allowing only 10 walks over 32.2 innings. His performance showcased an impressive 3.86 ERA, while his opponents struggled against him with a meager .208 batting average and a .317 slugging percentage—well below the league average.
The Yankees’ relief corps has been a saving grace for the team during a recent offensive slump, especially after star player Aaron Judge suffered a torn ligament in his right big toe, landing him on the injured list on June 7. Boasting a league-best 2.82 ERA, the Yankees’ relievers have consistently outperformed their counterparts, allowing the fewest home runs and inducing the highest groundball rate.
Cordero’s suspension sends a powerful message about MLB’s unwavering stance against domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. It underscores the league’s ongoing efforts to ensure the welfare of players and maintain the sport’s reputation.
As part of his punishment, Cordero will be required to undergo a treatment program supervised by the joint Policy Board—a testament to MLB’s determination to address and rectify such issues within its ranks. The Yankees wasted no time in expressing their full support for the league’s decision, unequivocally stating that domestic violence has no place in the sport or society.
The disciplinary action taken against Cordero serves as a reminder that MLB’s commitment to combatting these grave offenses extends beyond mere rhetoric. The league’s policy, negotiated in collaboration with the MLB Players Association, allows for flexible suspension lengths. Cordero’s agreement to a 76-game suspension marks one of the lengthiest penalties ever imposed by MLB.
The New York Yankees, in an official statement, have affirmed their unwavering backing of MLB’s investigative process and the disciplinary actions meted out to Cordero. They stand firmly behind the league’s objectives, standards, and enforcement of the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Child Abuse Policy, stressing that there can be no justification for such reprehensible behavior.
Check it out the official statement from the New York Yankees regarding this matter below:
“The Yankees are fully supportive of Major League Baseball’s investigative process and the disciplinary action applied to Jimmy Cordero. There is no justification for domestic violence, and we stand with the objectives, standards and enforcement of MLB’s Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy.”
Aaron Judge reacts over Jimmy Cordero’s suspension
Ahead of game 3 between the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Yankees, Aaron Judge was asked about the lengthy suspension of Jimmy Cordero. Judge expressed his sadness and concern for Cordero’s family, stating, “I’ve got his family on my mind,” as reported by Andy Martino of SNY.
Judge’s sentiments resonate with many, as situations like this are undeniably challenging. The safety and well-being of the victims involved are of utmost importance.
According to Brendan Kuty of The Athletic, Cordero had informed Yankees manager Aaron Boone a few days ago that he was under investigation by the league.
The news of the suspension came to light only last night, with Boone addressing the matter and holding discussions with a significant portion of the team.
Cordero served as a depth piece in the Yankees bullpen, widely recognized as one of the best in baseball. Despite his absence, the bullpen is expected to remain strong. Pitchers such as Clay Holmes, Tommy Kahnle, and Michael King will continue to shoulder the heavy workload and maintain the team’s performance.
What do you think? Leave your comment below.
Obviously not at the moment with Cordero being suspended for domestic violence.