Judge to decide whether to release former major leaguer Jim Leyritz until DUI trial

Judge to consider releasing Leyritz

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — A South Florida judge is expected to decide whether former New York Yankees World Series star Jim Leyritz will await his upcoming DUI manslaughter trial in jail.

The 45-year-old Leyritz was arrested last week after his ex-wife accused him of beating her. He had been free on bail on the manslaughter charge. A judge ruled that Leyritz’s latest arrest violated the conditions of his release, however, and had ordered him to remain jailed.

Leyritz is scheduled to go on trial on the manslaughter charge Sept. 14. Police have said Leyritz was drunk when he caused a fatal car crash in December 2007.

Leyritz played for six teams in 11 seasons. During a stint with the New York Yankees, he hit a memorable home run in the 1996 World Series to help the Yankees win Game 4 against Atlanta.