Dodgers Replace Julio Urias Team Mexico Bobblehead Giveaway with Premium Bobbleheads on September 21 Game
Urias on Administrative Leave Following Domestic Violence Arrest
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant change to their promotional calendar, announcing that the scheduled Julio Urias Team Mexico bobblehead giveaway, originally set for September 21, will not take place. Instead, the team plans to distribute “select premium bobbleheads” to the first 30,000 fans attending the September 21 game against the San Francisco Giants. This decision has swiftly followed the official placement of Julio Urias on administrative leave by Major League Baseball (MLB), in accordance with the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), earlier this week.
This sudden alteration to the promotional plan comes on the heels of Urias’ arrest on suspicion of domestic violence. The incident in question unfolded at Exposition Park in Los Angeles, California, on Sunday night. Subsequently, Urias posted a $50,000 bond in the early hours of Monday morning, and news of his arrest soon became public knowledge. Regrettably, this marks the second time in his career that Urias has faced allegations of domestic violence.
In response to these serious allegations, MLB, the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, and law enforcement agencies will each initiate comprehensive investigations. However, considering the advanced stage of the 2023 season and the contractual situation of the left-handed pitcher, the likelihood of Urias ever taking the mound for Los Angeles again appears increasingly uncertain.
The Dodgers’ decision to replace the Julio Urias bobblehead giveaway mirrors a similar action taken in 2021 when former MLB pitcher Trevor Bauer found himself on paid administrative leave due to allegations of domestic violence. This move by the Dodgers signals their commitment to addressing serious off-field issues and taking appropriate actions when necessary.
As the Urias situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how both MLB and the Dodgers will navigate the complex legal and ethical challenges posed by these allegations. For now, the focus shifts to the upcoming game on September 21, where fans can anticipate receiving premium bobbleheads as a replacement for the originally planned Urias bobblehead giveaway.
