Earlier on Wednesday, ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick reported Major League Baseball was investigating abuse allegations made against Tampa Bay Rays catcher Derek Norris by his ex-fiancée Kristen Eck on her Instagram account.
Norris, through his agent, has since issued the following statement to the Tampa Bay Times:
"First, I want to be absolutely clear that abuse of any form, is completely unacceptable. Allegations regarding this issue are a very serious matter and should not be taken lightly under any circumstances. That being said, in this circumstance, the comments made by my ex-fiancee could not be further from the truth. I have NEVER been physically or emotionally abusive towards her, or anyone else in my life.
"I plan to go above and beyond to assist MLB with their investigation into this matter.''
The Times also reported the Rays intend to keep Norris on their active roster. He is indeed listed in their Wednesday night lineup.
Eck has since wrote more about what she alleges happened on her website, claiming she was placed in a choke hold by Norris, and that he grabbed her by her arm and hair.