(670 The Score) White Sox right-hander Mike Clevinger is relieved that MLB has concluded its investigation into domestic violence and child abuse allegations against him, a probe that came without any discipline being doled out.
MLB had been conducting the investigation since last summer following allegations by Olivia Finestead, the mother of one of Clevinger’s children. The league made its announcement Sunday, noting that it conducted interviews with more than 15 people, including Clevinger and Finestead.
Thousands of electronic communications were also reviewed, and Clevinger stressed that he cooperated at every step, including letting investigators “clone my phone.” Clevinger had denied all the allegations by Finestead, which included that he threw an iPad at her while she was pregnant and that he strangled her.
“It’s a weight lifted,” Clevinger told reporters Tuesday. “I’m just thankful for the due process playing out the way it is and the truth getting out there.”
Asked if he felt vindicated, Clevinger responded, “I guess you could say that.” MLB informed him last week he wouldn't be punished.
“I’m just trying to move forward,” Clevinger said. “I want to focus on baseball now, focus on helping this club win. I’m looking forward to helping my family heal from this.”
Clevinger viewed the situation as a learning experience.
“You got to really watch who you trust,” Clevinger said.
Clevinger also thanked his White Sox teammates and fans who supported him.
“I just appreciated everyone who waited until the verdict was out, that waited until the facts came out,” Clevinger said. “I appreciate anyone who didn’t rush to judgment.”
As part of the investigation closing, Clevinger agreed to submit to evaluations by the MLB and MLBPA joint treatment boards and to follow any recommendations those boards make. Any further steps haven’t yet been outlined and relayed to Clevinger, he said Tuesday.
Clevinger, 32, joined the White Sox on a one-year, $12-million deal in December. He pitched for the Padres in 2022. The news of MLB’s investigation into Clevinger became public in January. He’s in line to be the White Sox’s No. 5 starter.
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