Cleveland Indians: Abraham Almonte Suspended 80 Games

Cleveland Indians Lose Abraham Almonte to 80-Game Suspension

The Cleveland Indians outfielder Abraham Almonte has been suspended for 8o games by Major League Baseball after he tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance.

The substance that was found in Abraham’s system was Boldenone, an anabolic steroid generally used by veterinarians for horses. Almonte had been battling back spasms since he arrived at spring training in Goodyear, Arizona.

The Indians released the following statement;

"“We were disappointed to learn of the suspension of Abraham Almonte for violating Major League Baseball’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. We fully support Major League Baseball’s policy and its efforts to eliminate performance-enhancing drugs from our game. Per the protocol outlined by Major League Baseball’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, we will not comment further on the circumstances surrounding this announcement.”"

Abraham was acquired by the Tribe on July 31, 2015 in a deal for reliever Marc Rzepczynski (nick name Scrabble). He was set to compete for the starting outfield position while Michael Brantley is recovering from a shoulder injury.

Almonte played in 51 games last year for the Indians, hitting .264 with 5 home runs and 20 RBIs. The 26-year-old can play in spring training but will not be allowed to play in a regular season game until the 80 game suspension ends in July.

Next: Indians Add Will Venable to OF Mix

Major League Baseball has handed out 18 minor and major league player suspensions for violating the league’s drug policy this year, including 3 major league players.

The Cleveland Indians could now pursue Austin Jackson or another free agent outfielder to fill the void, though they could stick to their internal options as well.