Maybin readying for return from suspension

PITTSBURGH -- Outfielder Cameron Maybin, currently serving a 25-game suspension for violating Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program policy, will head to Arizona next week as part of his preparation to return to the active roster.

Maybin, who tested positive for amphetamines, has been working out on his own since his suspension was announced on July 23. He'll work out at the team's Spring Training facility in Peoria.

Maybin will be allowed to play in five Minor League games prior to the day he's eligible to return to the big league roster, which is Aug. 20.

"More than likely that will be in El Paso, but we'll have to look at the schedule," said Padres manager Bud Black of Maybin's likely destination for his Minor League games.

In a statement at the time of his suspension, Maybin said his use of the violated substance stemmed from his attention deficit disorder, for which he previously had a Therapeutic Use Exemption granted.

Maybin is hitting .247, one point lower than his career average, with one home run and nine RBIs in 62 games.

The Padres have been forced to be creative in the outfield without Maybin and Carlos Quentin, who is likely done for the year with a bum left knee. Abraham Almonte, a switch-hitter obtained from Seattle on July 31, got the start in center field on Saturday against the Pirates.