The Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) has terminated the employment of Chief Operating Officer Xavier James and Head of Human Resources Michael O'Neill with cause, according to reports from Jeff Passan and Dan Van Natta Jr. of ESPN.
The dismissals come in the wake of an internal investigation conducted by the union. This internal probe was reportedly triggered by the Department of Justice (DOJ) looking into the MLBPA's operations. The specific findings of the investigation that led to the "with cause" terminations have not yet been disclosed.
The removal of James and O'Neill marks a significant leadership change within the organization. As COO, James held one of the most senior positions under Executive Director Tony Clark, overseeing much of the union's business and legal strategy. O'Neill had been responsible for the union's internal staffing and human resources protocols.
At this time, the MLBPA has not provided further comment on the nature of the DOJ's inquiry or the details surrounding the internal investigation. It remains unclear how these leadership vacancies will be filled in the interim as the union continues its operations.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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