Colorado Rockies shortstop Jose Reyes is set to stand trial April 4 on domestic abuse charges stemming from an October 2015 incident involving his wife in Maui, Hawaii.
Reyes has pleaded not guilty.
The trial is scheduled to take place in Hawaii, according to Christian Red of the New York Daily News, although deputy prosecuting attorney Kerry Glen told the paper a plea agreement is possible beforehand.
Per Red, the former New York Mets star “was arrested and charged with abuse of a family and/or household member” after the Wailea Four Seasons hotel security staff reported to police that Reyes’ wife, Katherine Ramirez, suffered face, neck and leg injuries.
According to Red, the impending case could have a major impact on Reyes’ Major League Baseball career. Former federal prosecutor and Wildes & Weinberg managing partner Michael Wildes explained that a conviction could lead to deportation:
Domestic violence can see an individual get deported if he or she is not a U.S. citizen. Once punished, the government has the authority to remove an individual for a crime involving moral turpitude and aggravated felony. It can be a very fast track for immigration officials to issue a removal proceeding. The only way to prevent removal is to be exonerated or have the charges dismissed, or if the government believes it’s a “he said, she said” matter. I would hope Mr. Reyes has a good immigration lawyer.
In addition, possible discipline from MLB or the Rockies remains. The organization was still looking into the matter in November:
Although Reyes’ play has dropped off in recent years, in part due to injury, the 32-year-old is still penciled in to be a key player for the organization. Last season, Colorado traded Troy Tulowitzki and reliever LaTroy Hawkins to Toronto for Reyes and three right-handed pitching prospects.
If Reyes isn’t ready for Opening Day, Daniel Descalso may see time at shortstop.
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