Clevinger addresses domestic violence allegations

GLENDALE, Ariz. – White Sox starting pitcher Mike Clevinger, currently under investigation by Major League Baseball following allegations of domestic abuse involving the mother of his 10-month-old daughter and abuse of the child, addressed his teammates Wednesday morning before the first pitchers and catchers workout at Camelback Ranch.

Clevinger did not reveal specifics of his comments to the team, nor did general manager Rick Hahn.

“This is how they were meeting me, for a lot of guys that don't know me,” said Clevinger, who denied wrongdoing. “It's the elephant in the room. I wanted to address it.”

Olivia Finestead, the 24-year-old mother of one of Clevinger’s children, detailed to The Athletic, and according to her public comments also to MLB's investigators, allegations of physical, verbal and emotional abuse. Clevinger, 32, said Wednesday he’s confident he will be exonerated.

“I'm just asking everyone to wait before they rush to judgment,” Clevinger said.

Finestead has continued to discuss issues between the two on her personal Instagram stories, and appeared on The Score, 670 AM in Chicago Wednesday afternoon to refute Clevinger’s comments from earlier in the day.

MLB’s investigation predates Clevinger signing with the White Sox in December, but the White Sox were unaware of the ongoing investigation per the MLB-MLBPA joint domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy. He is allowed to participate in Spring Training until the investigation is complete.

“Obviously, the confidentiality element of the investigation is essential to the success and strength of the policy and one that we’re going to continue to respect,” Hahn said.

He added: “For now, unfortunately, all I have is words that we take this seriously. It’s one thing to say something and it’s another thing for your actions and performance to back that up. At this time all I have is words that we obviously take this seriously, and support a very strong policy and the efforts of the investigation under that policy.”