The Houston Astros, Cleveland Indians, and Pittsburgh Pirates are the latest casualties of Major League Baseball’s war on drugs. The Astros lose rookie pitcher David Paulino at the MLB level, the Indians lose minor leaguer Joseph Colon, and the Pirates lose minor leaguer Joan Gregorio. All three have been given drug-related suspensions by the league.
According to a report from the LA Times, Paulino, who is the only one currently in the majors, received an 80-game ban after testing positive for Boldenone, an anabolic steroid. His penalty began with Saturday night’s game against the New York Yankees. Colon was cited for a synthetic drug whose effect is similar to that of testosterone. Gregorio showed evidence of the anabolic steroid Stanozolol. They have both been banned for the rest of the season.
Also banned under the major league drug program this year were Pittsburgh All-Star outfielder Starling Marte and Philadelphia pitcher Elniery Garcia.
The report goes on to state that There have been 47 suspensions this year under the minor league program.
What is going on with baseball players? Drugs, PEDs, and steroids have always been around. At one point in time, it was a serious issue. The use, or at least the revelation of use, seemed to slow way down. Now nearing the halfway mark of the season, it’s come back with a vengeance.
Rumors and accusations that baseballs are “juiced” have become more and more popular, especially as Major League Baseball has encountered a record number of home runs. While the balls may not be juiced, it seems that more and more players are.
The problems stemming from this issue vary from the here and now, all the way to the future. MLB must reprimand these players, and hand down their harsh punishments. Messages must be sent that this will not be tolerated.
But I fear Major League Baseball and the fans are in for far worse in the next ten years or so.
How will drugs, PEDs, and steroids be approached during Hall of Fame selection? Will proven drug users be allowed in? If so, what will become of the honor or reputation of the Hall of Fame?
Guidelines need to be set, and set quickly, regarding this matter. MLB cannot handle these on a “case by case” basis. Either these players get in, or they don’t. It should be one or the other. There absolutely cannot be a free pass for some, and not for others.
Do you think proven drug/PED/steroid users should be allowed in the Hall of Fame? Comment below and let me know your thoughts.