Rays catcher Derek Norris denies abuse claims made by ex-fiancee
Major League Baseball is investigating abuse claims by the former fiancée of Tampa Bay Rays catcher Derek Norris, reports ESPN.com.
Kristen Eck says she was "physically and mentally abused" by Norris during the course of the relationship and made the claims in an Instagram post.
In the post, Eck says she was abused by "the man I thought I was going to marry" adding she left him with only $300 to her name and that the pitcher and his family "made sure I had nothing."
Eck did not identify Norris by name in the social media post but she has been linked to Norris in past interviews.
Norris denied those allegations on Wednesday.
"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," Norris said in statement, according to the Tampa Bay Times.
"I plan to go above and beyond to assist MLB with their investigation into this matter," he added.
Norris is in his first season with the Rays after spending the previous two seasons with the San Diego Padres. The 28–year–old began his career with Oakland Athletics.
Norris is hitting .194 with five home runs and 17 RBIs in 43 games this season with Tampa Bay.
