Steward Berroa, a former Philadelphia Phillies shortstop prospect from the Dominican Republic, is at the center of a serious legal case involving allegations of sexual assault against multiple underage girls. The case, which emerged in late 2023, has drawn international attention and overshadowed Berroa’s promising baseball career.

Berroa was signed by the Phillies in 2019 for a $1.6 million bonus and was considered a top prospect due to his athletic ability and potential. However, his progression through the Phillies’ minor league system was marked by injuries and inconsistent performance. The Phillies released him in May 2024, a decision initially attributed to his on-field struggles but now linked to the ongoing investigation.

The allegations against Berroa involve incidents between 2019 and 2023, with several families accusing him of grooming and sexual abuse. Dominican authorities are actively investigating, and Berroa was arrested in late May 2024. He remains in custody pending further legal action.

Berroa’s legal team maintains his innocence, claiming the allegations are false and motivated by external factors. However, prosecutors have presented evidence, including testimony and digital records, that appears to support the claims.

The case has sparked outrage in the baseball community, highlighting concerns about the protection of young players and the need for more rigorous vetting of international signings. Major League Baseball has stated its cooperation with Dominican authorities and emphasized its zero-tolerance policy on abuse.

The scandal also raises questions about the power dynamics within Dominican baseball academies, where young players from vulnerable backgrounds may be susceptible to exploitation. As the investigation continues, Berroa’s baseball future and legal fate remain uncertain. The case is expected to face significant scrutiny as it progresses through the Dominican legal system, potentially setting a precedent for handling similar allegations in professional baseball.