'Lack of sufficient evidence'

District Attorney declines to file charges against Washburn

Jarrod Washburn is the Angels' first 17-game winner since '91. Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images

SANTA ANA, Calif. (AP) -- The Orange County district attorney will not file sexual assault charges against Anaheim Angels left-hander Jarrod Washburn.

"We have thoroughly reviewed the case and we are rejecting the case based on lack of sufficient evidence at this time," Deputy District Attorney Randy Payne said Wednesday.

The 28-year-old Washburn expressed relief at an impromptu news conference at nearby Edison Field 2 1/2 hours before the Angels played the Oakland Athletics.

"I'm just happy that I've been cleared and that this is all over with," he said. "I'm happy to be back on the baseball field, playing ball. As far as I'm concerned, the matter's done with."

KABC-TV, citing an unidentified source, reported Tuesday that a 16-year-old girl called police from an Orange County hospital room on Sept. 1 and made the allegation, prompting an investigation by the Anaheim Police Department.

"I was just surprised the investigation was the length that it was, knowing the facts," said Washburn's agent, Scott Boras, who a day earlier called the allegations "baseless."

Washburn, 17-5 with a 3.32 ERA, has made two starts since the investigation began, winning both.

"It's been on my mind," he said. "It's been a difficult thing to deal with. I haven't slept real well, I haven't eaten real well. I'm sure I'll eat better today and sleep better tonight."

Manager Mike Scioscia said Washburn, the Angels' winningest pitcher since 1991, will take his regular turn Friday night against the Texas Rangers.

"It's been obviously difficult for Jarrod," Scioscia said. "It's difficult when things are out of your control. We're going to move forward."

Washburn was in Scioscia's office when he learned that no charges would be filed.

"Relief, just relief," Scioscia said of Washburn's reaction. "He's ready to move forward and pitch."

Washburn left Edison Field on Tuesday afternoon after learning that news of the investigation was going to be made public.

He watched his teammates beat Oakland 5-2 on television Tuesday night to move within two games of the AL West-leading A's and extend their lead to five games over Seattle in the wild-card race.

"I thought yesterday I should be home with my family," said Washburn, married nearly four years, with one son. "I thought today it was best to be back here as usual."

He would not discuss any specifics.

Washburn's teammates were pleased to hear the news.

"Awesome, awesome. For him and his family, for us as a team, it's outstanding," first baseman Scott Spiezio said.

 

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