The Cubs could have cut ties with Addison Russell this week but opted to tender the embattled shortstop a contract ahead of Friday evening's deadline.
Russell was suspended 40 games for domestic violence by Major League Baseball in early October and will miss the first month of 2019. He already sat out the final 12 games of the 2018 campaign after his ex-wife, Melisa Reidy, published a disturbing blog post detailing the physical, psychological and emotional abuse she suffered while married to Russell.
The 24-year-old shortstop also released a statement for the first time since his suspension and Theo Epstein explained the decision:
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) November 30, 2018
“I offer my heartfelt apology to my family and my former wife Melisa for my past behavior.