MINNEAPOLIS — Twins pitcher Michael Pineda has received a 60-game suspension after testing positive for a drug that puts him in violation of the Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment program.
Pineda tested positive for using Hydrochlorothiazide, according to the Commissioner of Baseball.
Pineda himself had this to say:
"I'd like to begin with my sincere apologies to the Twins Organization, the fans, my teammates, and my family for my error in judgement.
I mistakenly took a medication that was given to me by a close acquaintance, who obtained it over-the-counter and assured me it would safely help me manage my weight. I ingested a few of these pills without the the consent of the Twins' training staff. Testing revealed trace elements of a substance called Hydrochlorothiazide, which is a banned diuretic under baseball's testing program.
This was shocking for me to hear. I never intended to cheat the system, other players, or opposing teams. While I am pleased that the arbitrator found there was clear and convincing evidence to reduce my discipline, I realize that I am ultimately responsible for what goes in my body and therefore respect the 60-game suspension that remains. I hope that I can be an example to others about how important it is to check with experts before taking any substance from an outside source."
The Twins organization issued this statement:
"We were disappointed to learn of the suspension of Michael Pineda for violating Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. We full support Major League Baseball's policy and its efforts to eliminate banned substances from our game. Per the protocol outlined in the Joint Drug Program, the Minnesota Twins will not comment further on this matter."
