Dodgers' Grudzielanek Arrested

Los Angeles shortstop Mark Grudzielanek faces an assault charge for allegedly punching a bar bouncer earlier this week.

The 29-year-old Grudzielanek, a former All-Star, was in Moose McGillycuddy's on Front Street late Tuesday night when a bouncer asked him to leave, Sgt. Donald Simpson said Thursday.

For some reason, Grudzielanek then allegedly punched the bouncer several times in the face, opening a 2-inch cut over his left eye.

Grudzielanek was placed under citizen's arrest and held until police arrived.

He was charged with misdemeanor third-degree assault and released early Wednesday morning after posting $200 bail. He is scheduled for a Dec. 22 hearing in Lahaina District Court.

Dodgers spokesman Shaun Rachau said Thursday he spoke with Grudzielanek's agent, Seth Levinson, and "according to him, there's no merit to the case and it will ultimately be dismissed."

Rachau said Grudzielanek, of North Palm Beach, Fla., was not available for comment. Moose McGillycuddy's personnel also would not comment.

Grudzielanek was one of the few bright spots last season on a disappointing Dodgers team. He hit a team-high .326, tying him for fifth in the National League, with seven home runs and 46 RBIs in 123 games.

He joined the Dodgers in a seven-player trade with Montreal in July 1998, two years after making the All-Star team.

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