Cleveland Indians outfielder Shin-Soo Choo was arrested Monday on suspicion of driving under the influence, after a breathalyzer test showed he had a blood-alcohol level of .201, well over Ohio’s legal limit of .08.
Choo, who was arrested in Sheffield Lake, was released without bond and was part of the starting line-up in Tuesday night’s game in Oakland.
A police-released dashcam of Choo’s arrest.
Police report that Choo was driving his SUV erratically, but when first stopped at 2:25 a.m., was allowed to continue driving when he told the officer he was lost and needed directions to his home in Avon Lake. He was pulled over a second time when he continued to cross double-yellow lines and drifted into a bike path, and subsequently failed several field sobriety tests.
“The Indians organization takes these issues very seriously and we are disappointed in the matter,” said General Manager Chris Antonetti in a statement. “We will continue to monitor the situation and we will not have any further comment at this time.”
Choo also released a statement, apologizing to his fans, the team, the club and his family.
“I am hopeful that this incident will not be a distraction to the Indians organization while we remain focused on continuing to play winning baseball,” said Choo. “Since this is a legal matter, I look forward to it being resolved within the court system as soon as possible.”
