Written by David O’Brien at Atlanta Constitution Journal.com
Braves left fielder Hector Olivera was arrested and charged with misdemeanor assault and battery for his alleged involvement in a domestic dispute at the team hotel in Arlington, Va.
The 31-year-old Cuban rookie was placed on administrative leave by Major League Baseball per its domestic-violence policy. The Braves are in Washington for a series against the Nationals that runs through Thursday.
Police were called to the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Pentagon City at 6:51 a.m. Wednesday by a woman saying she had been assaulted. The Arlington, Va., public information office said the female victim had bruises and was transported to Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington with non life-threatening injuries. She was treated and released Wednesday afternoon.
Olivera’s bond was set at $10,000 after he appeared in front of a judge late Wednesday afternoon. ABC7 News in Washington, D.C., reported that Olivera posted bond and was en route to the airport by early evening. He lives in Miami.
Police say Olivera and the alleged victim knew each other, but would not detail their relationship.
MLB said in a statement, “Consistent with our Joint Domestic Violence Policy, the player has been placed on administrative leave and the Commissioner’s Office has begun an investigation.”
Olivera was at the Ritz-Carlton when police arrived Wednesday morning and was taken into custody.
“We are extremely disappointed and troubled to learn of the allegations involving Hector Olivera,” the Braves said in a statement. “We will continue to gather information and will address this matter appropriately as we determine the facts. Major League Baseball has placed Olivera on Administrative Leave effective immediately.”
Braves general manager John Coppolella, at Nationals Park before Wednesday night’s game, declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation.
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