Washington manager Dave Martinez said in an interview with MLB.COM on the 22nd (Korea time), “The reason why Abrams went down to the minor league is not because of his performance. It’s a problem solved within the club,” adding, “I won’t reveal the details.”
Washington notified Abrams of a “minor league downgrade” after the visiting game against the Chicago Cubs on the 21st.
On paper, Abrams moved to Triple-A Rochester Red Wings under Washington on the 22nd.
“Abrams will lose about $30,000 (about 40 million won) in financial losses due to the minor league relegation,” ESPN said. “Abrams can raise objections through the players’ union.”
Cody Delmendo, a reporter for CHGO Sports, revealed on his social networking service that “Abrams was at the casino until 8 a.m. on the 21st (local time).”
Washington played Chicago at 1 p.m. that day.
Abrams started as the first hitter shortstop and went 0-for-3 with no hits.
Controversy grew when it was revealed that he stayed at the casino until the morning on the day of the day game, and eventually, the Washington club sent Abrams down to the minor leagues after the game on the 21st.
Abrams suffered disciplinary relegation, but the squad covered Abrams.
“He’s our family. I support him,” Martinez said. “When I sent him to the Minor League, he and I cried together. I will find a way to help him.”
“Everyone makes mistakes. What’s more, Abrams is still a young player,” teammate Joey Gallo said. “He is a great teammate. He will learn something from this experience and become a better player for our team.”안전놀이터
Abrams played in 138 games this season and posted a batting average of 0.246, 20 homers, 65 RBIs, 31 steals, and an OPS of 0.747.
He also played his first All-Star Game as a National League All-Star this year, but ended the regular season in the minor leagues due to gambling problems.