Aroldis Chapman’s suspension lauded by anti-violence advocate
New York Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman throws a bullpen session during spring training at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Fla. on Feb. 23, 2016 Credit: Newsday / Thomas A. Ferrara
Major League Baseball’s 30-game suspension of Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman on Tuesday was met with approval by National Coalition Against Violent Athletes founder Katherine Redmond Brown, who has consulted with MLB and the NFL on policies addressing domestic violence.
“The most important part of this was that they came out with a united front about the importance of addressing violence against women,’’ Redmond Brown said from Denver. Chapman agreed not to appeal the suspension and the Major League Baseball Players Association, saying it does not “condone the mistreatment of others by playing or non-playing personnel,” supported Chapman’s decision to forgo an appeal.
“Many times in the past the players have been able to go to attorneys and unions for protection,’’ Redmond Brown said. “There will be no appeal, he apologized for how he handled it and accepted the punishment. I think when you’re looking for examples you’re looking to set a different tone and change the culture.’’
Redmond Brown, who reportedly was a victim of an alleged sexual assault by a football player during her freshman year at the University of Nebraska, said there is an “importance of there being punitive measures attached to violence against women. I would have liked to have seen a 60-day [suspension]. The problem with that is you don’t have a charge,’’ referring to the Florida authorities’ decision not to prosecute the case based on the belief it would not lead to a conviction.
Redmond Brown said counseling is also a key component to augment the punishment. Baseball’s joint policy on domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse includes a treatment plan that requires meetings with professionals, if deemed necessary. Because of the confidentiality of the Chapman agreement, it is not known whether he would be entering this treatment plan.
Redmond Brown said the plan also has a provision to help the victims of alleged abuse. “One of the components of that policy that I appreciate very much is that the victim will be provided resources as well,’’ Redmond Brown said.
