MLB Domestic Violence Policy Explained

It's an unfortunate, disturbing reality, but domestic violence is overly prevalent in the sports world.

Just in the last three years, Major League Baseball has seen stars like Aroldis Chapman, Jeurys Familia, Jose Reyes, Roberto Osuna, and Addison Russell all involved in domestic violence incidents.

We can now add Odubel Herrera to the ever-growing list as the Phillies up-and-coming outfielder was taken into custody for his involvement in a domestic dispute in Atlantic City on Monday night. And it really makes you wonder, where exactly does the MLB stand on domestic violence?

What is the MLB's Domestic Violence Policy?

Back in August of 2015, the MLB and the MLB Players Association came to an agreement on cases involving domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.

The terms of the agreement highlight four main dynamics: Treatment and Intervention; Investigations; Discipline; and Training, Education and Resources.

Under the rules of the Treatment and Intervention theme, players charged will be required to submit psychological evaluations, attend counseling sessions, comply with court orders, and even limit their interactions with their partners.

Additionally, the Commissisoner's Office investigates all domestic violence allegations and may place an accused player on paid administrative leave for up to a week while the charges are investigated.

It is also the commissioner who finalizes an appropriate discipline, with no "minimum or maximum penalty under the policy."

Perhaps the most disturbing piece of the policy, however, is that all players are provided education about domestic violence at "regular intervals."

It sure doesn't seem like some of the players are paying much attention during these educational sessions.

Perhaps Manfred and Co. should think about inducing a "maximum penalty." If its players know their future in the sport would be in question, maybe then the league will see a lower number of these incidents.