Chicago Cubs: Addison Russell’s wife files for divorce, won’t speak to MLB

The saga of the Chicago Cubs’ Addison Russell is likely going to come to an end, and it will happen quietly. His wife Melisa has filed for divorce, and won’t speak to MLB about investigation.

It’s been a tough couple of weeks for Chicago Cubs‘ shortstop Addison Russell. After being called out for cheating on his wife’s Instagram, one of her “close” friends claimed he had physically abused his wife in front of their children. Melisa’s post was removed as well as the comment, but it was enough for Major League Baseball to look into the incident.

The allegation spread like wildfire, as it crept out through the various channels of social media. Melisa herself never claimed that Addison had abused her, and the friend that made the accusation wasn’t a direct source–the horse’s mouth as they say. Upon filing for divorce, the law firm representing her had this comment:

"“It is her desire to pursue a resolution that is, first and foremost, in the best interest of the parties’ son, and which occurs in a swift, amicable and private fashion,” the statement issued by Beermann Pritikin Mirabelli Swerdlove LLP on Melisa’s behalf said."

A moment to ponder

After Joe Maddon and the Cubs had given him some time to deal with the situation, Addison made this comment about the allegations made by her friend:

"“Any allegation I have abused my wife is false and hurtful. For the well-being of my family, I’ll have no further comment.”"

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Innocent until proven guilty

One of the first things to remember is that this was an allegation. There was no proof to it. Was Russell a bad person for cheating on his wife? Sure. But we don’t know the whole story, nor should we. When something like this happens to you, do you feel it’s anybody else’s business in your workplace?

And saying they are to hold to a higher standard isn’t fair nor right. They adhere to the same rights and laws we do. Neither of them should be put on trial in the court of public perception.

The decision to do what’s best for the children is the most adult thing the two can do at this point. They’re both young, and will both have time to get things right from here. The fact that I’m old enough even to say that is a scary fact. But it’s true. Like Addison, I married young, and it didn’t work out. And I wasn’t in the eye of the public, although it felt like it in my little town. I’m a huge advocate for second chances because I needed one as well.

No winners in this one

It will be difficult for Addison to find any solace on the baseball field until this is all over. But it’s what he’s going to need to do. The one thing these athletes DO have is resources. He doesn’t need to sit alone with his thoughts (terrible idea, btw), and will have plenty of people he can talk with.

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I’ve never claimed that either party was right or wrong for what has taken place. They both made missteps along the way. But putting the kids first says a lot about them in that aspect. Hopefully, this whole ordeal will disappear quietly–at least as far as the public is concerned. Melisa, Addison and their kids Aiden and Mila deserve that.