The New York Yankees have signed free-agent pitcher Julio Urías to a one-year, $1.5 million contract, addressing their need for starting pitching depth. This agreement includes a termination clause, allowing the Yankees to release Urías if he violates Major League Baseball’s (MLB) domestic violence policy for a third time.AP News+1ESPN.com+1
Urías, previously with the Los Angeles Dodgers, was suspended through the 2025 All-Star break for his second violation of MLB’s domestic violence policy. The suspension followed a September 2023 incident involving a physical altercation with his wife, leading to a no-contest plea to domestic battery charges in May 2024. His first suspension occurred in 2019 after a separate incident. El País+3Reuters+3Bless You Boys+3
MLB’s domestic violence policy, established in 2015, grants the Commissioner authority to discipline players for domestic violence, sexual assault, or child abuse, with no minimum or maximum penalty. Discipline is not contingent on a criminal conviction, and players may be placed on administrative leave during investigations. AP News+6ESPN.com+6MLB.com+6
The Yankees’ contract with Urías reflects a cautious approach, offering an opportunity for redemption while maintaining the ability to enforce accountability. This move underscores the team’s commitment to balancing competitive needs with adherence to MLB’s standards of conduct.