Indians outfield in deeper trouble after Abraham Almonte's 80-game PED ban
GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Indians outfielder Abraham Almonte has been suspended 80 games by Major League Baseball after testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance.
MLB said Friday that Almonte tested positive for Boldenone, an anabolic steroid generally used by veterinarians on horses.
The 26-year-old outfielder will not be allowed to play in regular-season games until July, but can play in spring training.
Almonte was likely to compete for a starting job in the outfield while Michael Brantley works his way back from a shoulder injury.
Acquired by the Indians on July 31, 2015, in a deal for left-handed reliever Marc Rzepczynski, Almonte played 51 games for Cleveland last season, hitting .264 with five home runs and 20 RBI.
Battling back spasms since arriving to the team's complex in Arizona last week, Almonte returned to baseball activities with the Indians on Friday -- several hours before the suspension was announced.
MLB says 18 minor- and major-league players have been found in violation of the league's drug policy this year, including three major-league players.
Abraham Almonte has been suspended for 80 games.
— Cleveland Indians (@Indians) February 26, 2016
We've issued the following statement on the subject: pic.twitter.com/mmgAUEWU0s
Abraham Almonte (left) was atop the Indians' depth chart in center.
