Major League Baseball Extends Herrera’s Administrative Leave

Upon learning that Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Odubel Herrera was arrested on suspicion of domestic violence, Major League Baseball acted quickly.  Under the joint MLB-Players Association agreement regarding domestic violence, a player is to be placed on administrative leave for seven days, pending an investigation.  Monday is the seventh day, but Herrera's administrative leave will continue.

Major League Baseball communications department released the news Monday that Herrera's administrative leave will continue until at least June 17.  That date is the day that Herrera is scheduled to appear in court related to the case.  This likely means the move was endorsed to by the MLB Players association and Major League Baseball.

Under the policy, an extension cannot occur unless it is warranted.  Recently, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Julio Urias was reinstated after the seven-day window.  In that case, Urias was not yet charged with a crime, and MLB was unable to retrieve video that would have captured the alleged incident.

Major League Baseball can apply sanctions to Herrera, even without a guilty verdict.  They will conduct their own interviews and make a determination about how to proceed with the case.  Until that determination is made, Herrera is out with full pay.