Colorado Rockies shortstop Jose Reyes to stand trial in Hawaii on domestic violence

Colorado Rockies shortstop Jose Reyes will stand trial on domestic abuse charges, stemming from an incident at the Four Seasons Resort in Hawaii on October 31 of last year, according to a report from the New York Daily News.

Right now, Reyes’ trial is set to begin on April 4, which coincides with Opening Day for the Rockies. A decision on Reyes’ discipline by Major League Baseball was already expected by March 1, but the news of a trial would seem to assure that Reyes will not be in a Rockies uniform when the season opens.

However, there is still time for Reyes and his defense attorneys to reach a plea deal before that date in order to avoid going to trial. Even a plea deal for Reyes could have significant ramifications, though.

According to former federal prosecutor Michael Wildes, a conviction on domestic violence charges could lead to deportation for Reyes if he isn’t a U.S. citizen. This may be a moot point as Reyes reportedly began working to gain citizenship in 2008, but it’s not clear whether he ever completed the process.

Wildes told the Daily News:

"Once punished, the government has the authority to remove an individual for a crime involving moral turpitude and aggravated felony. It can be a very fast track for immigration officials to issue a removal proceeding. The only way to prevent removal is to be exonerated or have the charges dismissed, or if the government believes it's a 'he said, she said' matter. I would hope Mr. Reyes has a good immigration lawyer."

We’ll be looking for clarification on Reyes' status in the coming days, and will keep you up to date on everything regarding Reyes' trial as more news becomes available.