Bob Nightengale reports that Major League Baseball will suspend Nationals infielder Starlin Castro for violating the league’s joint domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy.
Castro’s suspension comes after the league’s investigation window ended yesterday. So, the league made its decision after finishing its investigation. MLB Commissioner Robert D. Manfred Jr. released the following announcing Castro’s suspension,
“My office has completed its investigation into the allegations that Starlin Castro violated Major League Baseball’s Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy. Having reviewed all of the available evidence, I have concluded that Mr. Castro violated our Policy and that discipline is appropriate.”
Robert D. Manfred Jr. MLB Commisioner
However, after the news of the suspension, the Nationals announced that they will be releasing Castro,
“We take all allegations of abuse and harassment very seriously. We fully support the Commissioner’s decision and will be releasing Starlin Castro upon the completion of his suspension. Per the terms of the policy, we will have no further comment on this matter.”
Castro has been on leave since July 16th, when the allegations Castro were made public. However, this is Castro’s second time this season being placed on the restricted list. The first time was a month ago to what was deemed as a family situation.
However, this is not Castro’s first run-in with the law. In 2011 when he was with the Cubs, he was accused of sexual assault. However, he was not charged with a crime.
How the Nationals Move On From Starlin Castro
So, after a busy night on the trade market, the Nationals will have to decide on third base for the remainder of the season. However, the Nationals will have options to fill in for Castro at third basemen.
The Nationals have two options that will give their young prospects experience. Carter Kieboom is most likely who will be the starting third basemen. However, the Nationals also have Luis Garcia as an option at third base. But, Garcia does not have as much experience at third base, so he could fill in at third.
The Nationals also have veterans who can play third base every day. The first option is Alcides Escobar; he has been in the lineup frequently since May. Throughout his tenure in Washington, he is a veteran infielder for the team. If he can move over to third, they can manage how they play their two prospects. Another option the Nationals will have is Josh Harrison. Harrison started the season as the everyday second basemen. Still, with all the injuries throughout the season, the Nationals have been able to move him around. So, at this point, they have four strong options to play at third base.
Another option the Nationals will have is Jordy Mercer. However, Mercer is on the injured list at this point, and there is no timetable for a return. But, Mercer is another veteran the Nationals have as a platoon infielder that the Nationals can use for the remainder of the season.
At this point, the Nationals will have to reconstruct the infield after losing Trea Turner to the Dodgers last night.
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