Major League Baseball is never short on controversy and drama. Living up to this reputation, this time, it’s Marcell Ozuna. The 31-year-old Dominican currently plays as an outfielder for the Atlanta Braves. During the past 15 months, Ozuna has made the news twice for the wrong reasons. For these reasons, the outfielder could potentially lose his 4-year contract and become unemployed by this season’s end.
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Marcell Ozuna made his debut with the Miami Marlins in 2013. Since then, he signed a one-year contract with the Cardinals, and now, he is playing for the Atlanta Braves. In his 10-year career, he has won two Silver Slugger awards and has been a part of two All-Star teams. Moreover, in 2021, the Braves offered him a four-year contract extension for $64 million.
Why did Marcell Ozuna spend over 3 hours in prison?
Marcell Ozuna was driving under the influence in a 35mph zone. The cop car had to race at 90mph to catch up to him. On being stopped by the police, in an attempt to use his MLB personality to escape the law, Ozuna handed over his MLB ID along with his driver’s license and said, “Sorry, sorry, I’m Ozuna from the Braves.”
“Here is Ozuna from the Braves”
Braves radio broadcaster Ben Ingram doing a little trolling pic.twitter.com/DaZA9mEvmg
— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) August 21, 2022
Ozuna refused to take breath and blood tests. Eventually, the police booked the outfielder for driving under the influence, and was put in prison for over 3hrs. Ozuna paid $1,830 to get released. While the Braves took on the Houston Astros, the commentator took a dig at Ozuna when he came to bat. Repeating exactly what Ozuna told the police officer, the commentator said, “Now here is Ozuna from the Braves.”
Some boos at Truist Park for Marcell Ozuna, who is starting in left field today, two days after his arrest on a DUI charge
— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) August 21, 2022
In addition to disappointed team members, family, and commentators, fans were unhappy with the arrest and the Braves’ decision to play him in the game. They were not subtle about their feelings, as they blatantly booed Ozuna as the game proceeded.
Why did Ozuna get arrested in 2021?
In 2021, Ozuna made the headlines after being charged with domestic violence. The police walked in on Ozuna, beating his wife. The MLB posted a 20-game suspension on Ozuna after this incident, due to which he missed the second half of the Braves season, including the World Series victory.
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With all the legal troubles, the past two years haven’t been great for Marcell Ozuna. Consequently, he has become more of a liability for the Atlanta Braves. While his retribution is unknown, could this be the turning point in his career? What do you think?
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