MLB suspended Toronto Blue Jays top hitting prospect Orelvis Martinez 80 games for violating its performance-enhancing drugs policy.
Martinez tested positive for Clomiphene, a banned fertility drug that alters testosterone levels in men. His suspension is effective immediately.
"We were both surprised and disappointed to learn of Orelvis Martinez's suspension. We will do everything in our power to ensure Orelvis has learned from this mistake," Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins said in a statement, per Shi Davidi of Sportsnet.
"Orelvis has our support, and we know he will get through this."
In a statement published by the MLBPA, Martinez said he "took full responsibility" and explained the circumstances that led to his suspension:
The Major League Baseball Players Association issued the following statement on behalf of Orelvis Martinez: pic.twitter.com/67MIRF4T2k
— MLBPA Communications (@MLBPA_News) June 23, 2024
The Blue Jays promoted Martinez, MLB.com's 68th-ranked prospect, on Tuesday after Bo Bichette hit the injured list with a calf ailment. Martinez recorded his first major-league hit in Friday's loss to the Cleveland Guardians.
Before joining the Blue Jays, the 22-year-old hit 16 home runs with a .523 slugging percentage across 63 games at Triple-A Buffalo.
Martinez will be eligible to return in September.
