Dirty Dozen: 12 MLB Players Accept 50-Game Suspensions; A-Rod to Get Stiffer Penalty

On Monday, twelve Major League Baseball players, including Nelson Cruz of Texas, Jhonny Peralta of Detroit, and Jordany Valdespin of the New York Mets, reportedly accepted 50-game suspensions for violating baseball’s drug policy. As of this writing, an announcement on Alex Rodriguez’s penalty has not been made.

According to Fox Sports, here are the players who have accepted 50-game suspensions:

Nelson Cruz (Texas Rangers), Jhonny Peralta (Detroit Tigers), Antonio Bastardo (Philadelphia Phillies), Jordany Valdespin (New York Mets), Everth Cabrera (San Diego Padres), Francisco Cervelli (New York Yankees), Jesus Montero (Seattle Mariners), Sergio Escalona (Houston Astros), Fautino De Los Santos (San Diego Padres), Cesar Puello (New York Mets), Fernando Martinez (New York Yankees), and Jordan Norberto (free agent).

Rodriguez, the embattled third baseman who has been the focal point of the investigation, may be suspended for at least 214 games, but he will reportedly be allowed to play while he appeals, and his lawyers have indicated they will fight the charges “to the end.”

Talks between Rodriguez and Major League Baseball broke down this weekend when Selig was enraged that Rodriguez accused MLB and the Yankees of colluding to ban him for life or possibly void his contract.

Milwaukee’s Ryan Braun already accepted his suspension for the remainder of the season without pay earlier this month.

COMMENTS