Player denies rape charge

A 27-year-old California man has denied the charge that he raped a woman whom he met at a Whitefish bar.

Eric Alberto Cordova faces a felony count of sexual intercourse without consent. He pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead County District Court.

He’s listed as a Los Angeles resident and was a pitcher for the Glacier Outlaws baseball team.

According to court documents, Cordova and another man met two women in downtown Whitefish on May 23. They eventually ended up at the home of one of the women.

One woman had stated she was not interested in Cordova and went to bed, according to court documents. She told investigators that she awoke later to find Cordova having sex with her.

Court documents say that sexual assault exams were taken from both Cordova and the woman.

Officials for the Glacier Outlaws said Cordova was released from the team as soon as they learned of his arrest. The league has since folded.

Cordova remains in the Flathead County Detention Center and could face up to 100 years in prison if convicted.

His next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 26.

Reporter Matt Hudson may be reached at 758-4459 or by email at mhudson@dailyinterlake.com.