Addison Russell's wife files for divorce

Addison Russell, trouble on and off the field.

IT HAS not been a very good year for Filipino/American Addison Russell, the Chicago Cub's All-Star shortstop. Although he hasn't performed well in the field and at the plate, it is his off-field troubles that may have a deeper impact.

After allegations of domestic abuse leaked to the public, Russell's wife, Melisa, has filed for divorce. She also will not meet with Major League Baseball to discuss the investigation into domestic abuse claims against Russell.

Beermann Pritikin Mirabelli Swerdlove LLP, the law firm representing Melisa Russell, announced the divorce proceedings in a statement released Wednesday (June 21).

RELATED: The Cubs' Filipino/American All-Star shortstop

MLB began its investigation earlier this month after Melisa Russell, in an Instagram post, accused her husband of cheating and implied that the couple was breaking up, according to ESPN. A comment related to the post from someone she identified as a close friend accused the player of physically abusing his wife.

Melisa Russell has not publicly commented on the abuse allegation, but her law firm did release this statement:

Mrs. Russell has declined the invitation from Major League Baseball to be interviewed relative to social media postings and allegations of domestic violence. 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.

Even if Melisa Russell does not cooperate with MLB officials, Addison Russell could still face a punishment from the league. 

Major League Baseball and the players' union agreed to a new, more rigorous domestic violence policy in 2015. Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman was suspended 30 games under the policy last season. Mets closer Jeurys Familia, infielder Jose Reyes and Braves outfielder Hector Olivera have also received lengthy suspensions under the policy.