What's Next for Dodgers' Star Pitcher Julio Urias?

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the sports world, Major League Baseball has placed Julio Urias, star pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, on indefinite administrative leave following a domestic violence arrest. This isn't Urias's first brush with the law on this issue.

What's Next for Dodgers' Star Pitcher Julio Urias?
Julio Urias, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher, seen here in better times, now faces an uncertain future following his arrest on domestic violence charges. Credit: Antonio Rosique

In a move that has made waves in the sports world, Major League Baseball (MLB) has placed Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Julio Urias on indefinite administrative leave following his recent arrest. The arrest occurred on suspicion of causing bodily injury to his spouse or significant other. In a climate increasingly aware of the implications of domestic violence, this action by MLB serves as a significant step under the league's domestic violence rule book, a joint initiative between the league and the ballplayers' union established in 2015.

Urias was arrested by Department of Public Safety officers at Exposition Park, located just south of downtown Los Angeles. For context, this park is also home to BMO Stadium, where soccer legend Lionel Messi recently played an MLS game attended by numerous celebrities. The legal violation Urias is accused of falls under Penal Code 273.5, which specifically addresses corporal injury to a spouse or partner. To be charged under this law, the injury must have been intentionally caused by physical force, and it is considered a felony.