Mets RHP Jenrry Mejia suspended 162 games for positive PED test
New York Mets righthander Jenrry Mejia was suspended 162 games without pay on Tuesday after testing positive for performance-enhancing substances, his second PED suspension of the season.
MLB said Mejia tested positive for Stanozolol and Boldenone; his first suspension on April 11 was for 80 games as a result of a positive test for Stanozolol. Both anabolic steroids are on MLB’s list of prohibited substances.
“We were extremely disappointed when informed of Jenrry’s second suspension for violating Major League Baseball’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program,” the Mets said in a statement. “We fully support MLB’s policy toward eliminating performance enhancing substances from the sport.”
• MLB trade rumors: Latest news, buzz around potential deadline deals
Mejia, 25, returned from his first suspension in a July 12 game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. He last pitched on Sunday, picking up a win after pitching a scoreless 10th inning in a 3–2 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Over his seven outings this season, Mejia has not allowed a run while surrendering four hits, walking two batters and striking out seven over 7 1/3 innings.
Mejia, previously the Mets’ closer, was in his fifth season with the team and is eligible for arbitration after this season.
• Reports: Phillies trade closer Jonathan Papelbon to Nationals
Asked if Mejia was done with the Mets on Tuesday, general manager Sandy Alderson said, “It’s something we’re going to have to think about.”
On Monday, the Mets acquired relief pitcher Tyler Clippardin a trade with the Oakland Athletics. Clippard has a 2.79 ERA and converted 17 of 21 save opportunities while filling in for injured A’s closer Sean Doolittle.
- Mike Fiammetta
