ST. PETERSBURG -- Rays catcher Derek Norris issued a statement on Wednesday denying an allegation that he mentally and physically abused his former fiancee.
Norris statement reads:
"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."
A Major League Baseball spokesman confirmed to MLB.com that the league is investigating.
The Rays issued a statement as well:
"The Rays wholly support MLB's Domestic Violence policy. We take these allegations very seriously and will fully cooperate with the Commissioner's Office on this matter."
The woman made her allegation via an Instagram post in which she did not name Norris. He has been identified as her former fiance in the past.
Rays manager Kevin Cash said that the club is deferring to MLB on the matter.
"No, we're basically out of it," Cash said. "We're going to let Major League Baseball handle it. Obviously, they do a good job of investigating, and we'll go from there."