Nats to release Castro after 30-game domestic violence suspension

Washington Nationals second baseman Starlin Castro received a 30-game suspension and an undisclosed fine for violating MLB's joint domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy, commissioner Rob Manfred announced Friday.

The suspension, which is without pay, takes effect Friday. Castro will also be ineligible for the playoffs. Additionally, he's required to take part in "a confidential and comprehensive evaluation and treatment program supervised by the joint policy board," per MLB's statement.

The Nationals announced that Castro will no longer play for the team.

"We take all allegations of abuse and harassment very seriously," the club said in a statement. "We fully support the commissioner's decision and will be releasing Starlin Castro upon the completion of his suspension."

MLB placed Castro on administrative leave on July 16 after it began investigating an alleged domestic violence incident. Police haven't charged Castro with a crime. The 31-year-old briefly left the Nationals in June, and the team put him on the restricted list due to "family matters."

Castro signed a two-year contract with Washington before the 2020 season.