The Chicago Cubs have optioned infielder Addison Russell to their Triple-A affiliate, the Iowa Cubs. Russell was batting .242 with six home runs and 16 RBI in 55 games played. The 25-year-old has played his entire five-year major league career with the Cubs.
The #Cubs today activated catcher Willson Contreras from the 10-day IL.
INF Addison Russell was optioned to Triple-A Iowa. pic.twitter.com/4Cy3GlXUot
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) July 24, 2019
Chicago Cubs Option Addison Russell to Triple-A
Russell’s Career
Russell was the 11th overall draft pick by the Oakland Athletics in the 2012 MLB draft. He quickly became the best prospect in the Athletics farm system and one of the best in baseball. The Athletics who were deep into the pennant race in 2014 traded Russell to the Cubs.
Russell was called up to the majors by the Cubs on April 21st, 2015, and he was impressive — hitting 13 home runs and picking up 54 RBI. In 2016, he had the best year of his career, slugging in 21 home runs and driving in 95 runs. Russell also made his only All-Atar appearance that season.
In 2017, Russell’s numbers dipped due to an injury to his foot. Playing in 110 games, the infielder only hit 12 home runs and drove in 43 runs. In 2018, he hit only five home runs with 38 RBI. Due to a suspension, Russell missed the start of the 2019 season. In 55 games, he has hit six home runs to go along with 16 RBI.
Personal Issues
Unfortunately, Russell is more known for his personal issues than his play on the field. In October of 2018, he was suspended 40 games by Major League Baseball for allegations of domestic violence against his then-wife Melisa Reidy. The suspension was retroactive to September 21st, as Russell was already on suspension for the incident. He initially denied the allegations made by Reidy, but eventually accepted the suspension. Russell and Reidy share a son, Aiden who was born in 2015.
Upon deciding to accept the suspension handed down by Major League Baseball, Russell stated, “I have concluded it’s in the best interest of my family to accept MLB’s proposed resolution. I wish my ex-wife well and hope we can live in peace for the benefit of our child.”
Russell also has two other children. A daughter, Mila born on May 2015, and a son Raynor born on October 2018.
Demotion To The Minors
The Cubs have decided to option Russell to Triple-A for baseball reasons, not his personal issues. Cubs manager Joe Maddon has cited mental mistakes as well as physical ones. With the Cubs in the middle of a pennant race, Maddon has stated these mental mistakes have been things such as defensive positioning and picking up signs. Even Russell himself has admitted to making those mistakes.
The hope for Chicago is that Russell can recharge and take a mental break while in the minors. Russell has said he is committed to being a better player and a better teammate.
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