MLB will not suspend Twins’ Miguel Sano after assault allegations

The Office of the Commissioner decided Friday that Twins infielder Miguel Sano would not be suspended for assault allegations made against him in December. Freelance photographer Betsy Bissen alleged Sano forcefully restrained her while she fought against him and attempted to kiss her multiple times, in addition to additional unnerving behavior.

This is the first time since Yasiel Puig in 2016 that a player has been investigated under the league’s domestic violence policy but not suspended. In a statement, the league said this of the investigation’s outcome:

“The comprehensive investigation included interviews of more than 20 individuals, including Sanó and the complainant, as well as a review of available documents, including communication records. The Office of the Commissioner found that there was insufficient evidence to support a disciplinary determination against Sanó, due to conflicting and inconsistent witness accounts and the absence of contemporaneous substantiation.”

Sano denied the allegations shortly after they were made, and has been playing with the Twins at spring training. He’s currently signed with Minnesota through 2022. The Twins also released a statement about the decision, saying:

“The Minnesota Twins fully support the joint MLB-MLBPA policy which governs serious matters of this nature. The Twins are pleased that the Commissioner’s Office has concluded its investigation with respect to Miguel Sano. Miguel can now return his sole focus to the season ahead. Per team protocol, the Twins will not comment further on this matter.”

Red Sox pitcher Stephen Wright, under investigation contemporaneously with Sano, has been suspended 15 games for domestic violence.