After placing New York Yankees pitcher Domingo Germán on administrative leave under the league’s domestic violence policy in September, MLB will reportedly suspend Germán for 81 games following its investigation into his alleged domestic violence.
MLB Network’s Jon Heyman first reported that an announcement of Germán’s suspension was nearing. Yahoo Sports’ Hannah Keyser delivered the news that Germán will receive an 81-game ban, resulting in him missing the first 63 games of the 2020 season.
German was placed on leave as MLB investigated allegations of domestic violence by the 27-year-old against the mother of his children. The alleged assault reportedly occurred on the same day teammate CC Sabathia held a retirement party at the Hudson Yards.
As a result of his placement on administrative leave during the 2019 season, the 18 games he missed in 2019 accounted for part of the 81-game ban.
Before the suspension, German emerged as a reliable pitcher in the middle of New York’s rotation. He struck out 153 batters in 143 innings and posted a 4.03 ERA and 1.15 WHIP with an 18-4 record in 27 appearances.
While Germán’s absence for more than a third of the season will be felt, New York’s rotation depth will help make up for his absence. Gerrit Cole, Luis Severino, James Paxton and Masahiro Tanaka are expected to take the first four spots in the rotation.
Jordan Montgomery, J.A. Happ and even pitching prospect Deivi García could now see opportunities as New York’s No. 5 starter during Germán’s suspension.