MLB suspends Indians P Emmanuel Clase 80 games for PED violation
MLB has suspended Cleveland Indians pitcher Emmanuel Clase 80 games for violating the game’s performance-enhancing drug policy.
Clase tested positive for performance enhancer Boldenone, according to MLB.
What is Boldenone?
According to the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, Boldenone is a testosterone derivative that serves no therapeutic use that’s often used to increase muscle mass and strength.
It’s commonly sold on the black market and used illegally in race horses.
Clase arrived via Corey Kluber trade
Clase, 22, was the centerpiece for Cleveland in December’s blockbuster trade that saw the Indians deal ace and former Cy Young winner Corey Kluber to the Texas Rangers. Cleveland also received outfielder Delino DeShields Jr. in the trade.
The Indians released a statement Friday afternoon responding to the news.
“We were disappointed to learn of today’s suspension of Emmanuel Clase for violating Major League Baseball’s policy and its efforts to eliminate performance-enhancing drugs from our game,” the statement reads. “We have been in contact with Emmanuel, and we will welcome him back after the discipline has been served.”
Future closer in Cleveland?
Clase made his MLB debut with the Rangers last season, logging a 2.31 ERA with 21 strikeouts, six walks and a 1.114 WHIP over 23 1/3 innings of mostly relief pitching. A hard thrower who can break 100 mph on the radar gun, Clase projects as Cleveland’s potential future closer.
Ranked as anywhere between the No. 6 and No. 15 prospect in Cleveland’s farm system, Clase was expected to play a major role this upcoming season, whenever it starts.
Before he does, he’ll have to serve an 80-game ban.
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