Mike Clevinger needs to be released if the allegations are true

Mike Clevinger, who came to the Chicago White Sox from the San Diego Padres, is under investigation by Major League Baseball.

He has been accused by Olivia Finestead, the mother of his 10-month-old child, of physical, verbal, and emotional abuse. The accusations include allegations that he choked her last summer and two weeks later he slapped her and threw used chewing tobacco on their child.

According to The Athletic, the White Sox became aware of the allegations after Clevinger signed with the team and the Sox deny being aware of the allegations before he signed.

The Sox put out this statement to The Athletic:

"“Major League Baseball and the Chicago White Sox take any and all allegations very seriously, and the White Sox are completely supportive of the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse policy shared by MLB and the MLBPA.MLB opened an investigation after learning of these allegations. The White Sox were not aware of the allegations or the investigation at the time of his signing. The White Sox will refrain from comment until MLB’s investigative process has reached its conclusion.”"

Mike Clevinger is being accused of domestic violence according to a report.

I believe Clevinger should be released by the White Sox as soon as possible if the allegations are true. Based on images circulating on social media that are too graphic to be shared here, the allegations appear credible.

Also, Clevinger’s representation doesn’t appear to be denying the allegations. I am all for letting investigations play out when the accused claims innocence but in this case, it appears Clevinger and his agent aren’t denying the claims.

His agent said this to The Athletic:

"“We need to fairly and thoroughly protect our client and at the same time be respectful of the White Sox and MLB. We need time before responding.”"

Clevinger appears to have abused his partner and child. He shouldn’t be playing baseball while the investigation is ongoing, and he definitely shouldn’t be playing baseball — for any team — if the allegations are true.

Playing professional sports is a privilege, not a right, and it’s earned. Some actions off the field cannot be condoned.

If there are union protections that keep him from being cut right away, that’s understandable, but otherwise, do not hesitate further. Do the right thing.