Mets Reliever Pleads Guilty In Assault Case

reliever Francisco Rodriguez pleaded guilty to attempted assault and disorderly conduct for an altercation that erupted at Citi Field with his girlfriend's father in August.

During the incident, Rodriguez attacked Carlos Peña, punching him multiple times in the face, resulting in bruises and cuts that had to be treated at Elmhurst Hospital near the stadium.

Rodriguez entered the plea on Friday morning, and as part of his sentence agreed to enroll in an anger management program and pay Peña's medical bills — in excess of $14,000, as well as a $1,000 fine.

"In seeking an appropriate disposition in this case, it was important that the defendant take responsibility for his actions, acknowledge that he has an anger management problem and that he address the issue – for his own sake and that of his family." District Attorney Richard Brown said after the plea was entered. "The defendant's expressed willingness to fully comply with the terms and conditions of today's plea makes the disposition the right one for all concerned."

If Rodriguez fails to complete the 52-session course, he is subject to arrest and could be sentenced to four months in jail.

In addition to the medical bills, Peña and his daughter, Daian, also have a two year order of protection against the Mets pitcher.