New York Yankees Pitcher Suspended for Violating Domestic Violence Policy

New York Yankees relief pitcher Jimmy Cordero has been suspended for the remainder of the 2023 season due to a violation of Major League Baseball’s domestic violence policy. Cordero, who had not played in the majors since 2020, became an essential part of the Yankees’ bullpen. In his 31 appearances, he recorded 34 strikeouts and issued 10 walks in 32⅔ innings. He maintained an impressive 3.86 ERA and held opposing hitters to a batting average of .208 and a slugging percentage of .317, both significantly below the league average.

Yankees Bullpen Shines During Offensive Slump

Despite an offensive slump following Aaron Judge’s injury in early June, the New York Yankees’ relief corps has helped the team remain competitive. As of now, the Yankees relievers boast the best ERA in the major leagues at 2.82. Additionally, they have surrendered the fewest home runs and have induced the highest ground-ball rate. This impressive performance has been a crucial factor in the team’s ability to stay relevant in the league.

Cordero’s Emergence as a Reliable Reliever

Jimmy Cordero, who previously played for the Nationals, Blue Jays, and White Sox, has proven himself to be a reliable middle-innings reliever for manager Aaron Boone. Armed with a fastball that consistently reaches speeds above 97 mph and a complementary slider, Cordero has not allowed a single run in 23 appearances. His stellar performance on the mound has undoubtedly contributed to the success of the Yankees’ bullpen.

The Lengthy Suspension and Support from the Team

Major League Baseball’s domestic violence policy, which was negotiated with the MLB Players Association, does not specify the length of suspensions for violators. However, Cordero’s suspension of 76 games, to which he agreed, is one of the longest penalties handed out by the league. The New York Yankees organization expressed full support for MLB’s investigative process and the disciplinary action taken against Cordero. In a statement, the team emphasized their stance against domestic violence and their alignment with the objectives, standards, and enforcement of MLB’s Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Child Abuse Policy.