In a series of disturbing social media posts, the girlfriend of former Giants reliever Sam Dyson has accused the free-agent pitcher of domestic violence.
Alexis Elizabeth claimed on Instagram that the 31-year-old Dyson has bullied her and also injured her cat during his angry outbursts that included him throwing things at her and her cat. Elizabeth used Instagram posts on Sunday to reveal what she said has been a pattern of abusive behavior by Dyson.
Through an Instagram account Dyson's girlfriend operates featuring her cat, Snuckles, Elizabeth alleged the pitcher injured her cat during one outburst. NBCS Bay Area's Carmen Kiew reported the cat suffered a cut on its nose and a possible chipped tooth during the incident.
MLB is reportedly investigating the allegations against Dyson.
Dyson, who spent parts of three seasons with the Giants from 2017-19, was dealt to Minnesota at the trade deadline last season. The eight-year veteran was originally the A's 10th-round draft pick out of South Carolina in 2009 but didn't sign with Oakland. Dyson had his most success in the majors while with the Giants, his fifth major league team.
Dyson served as the Giants' closer after arriving from the Rangers in a trade on June 6, 2017. The right-hander notched 14 of his 19 saves with San Francisco in that season, and he finished his Giants career with a 2.94 ERA in 61 games.
The accusations Dyson faces from his girlfriend wouldn't be the first time he's been involved in a violent confrontation. Five years ago while in the minors with the Marlins, Dyson got into a bar fight with a teammate, ex-A's pitcher Chris Hatcher. Although details were sketchy, Dyson suffered a broken jaw when Hatcher punched him in the face. Hatcher was suspended for five games by the Marlins.
