The Office of the Commissioner of Baseball announced today that five Minor League players have been suspended following their violations of the Minor League Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.
Free agent Minor League outfielder L.J. Hoes has received a 50-game suspension without pay following a second positive test for a drug of abuse. The suspension of Hoes will be effective immediately upon his signing with another Major League organization.
Atlanta Braves Minor League infielder Gabe Howell has received a 68-game suspension without pay after testing positive for Hydrochlorothiazide, a performance-enhancing substance in violation of the Program. The suspension of Howell, who is currently on the roster of the rookie-level Danville Braves of the Appalachian League, will be effective at the start of the 2017 Appalachian League season.
Arizona Diamondbacks Minor League catcher Ryan January has received a 50-game suspension without pay after testing positive for Amphetamine, a stimulant in violation of the Program. The suspension of January, who is currently on the roster of the rookie-level Missoula Osprey of the Pioneer League, will be effective at the start of the 2017 Pioneer League season.
St. Louis Cardinals Minor League left-handed pitcher Corey Littrell has received a 50-game suspension without pay following a second positive test for a drug of abuse. The suspension of Littrell, who is currently on the roster of the Triple-A Memphis Redbirds of the Pacific Coast League, will be effective at the start of the 2017 PCL season.
Colorado Rockies Minor League infielder Yeremi Rosario has received a 72-game suspension without pay after testing positive for Tamoxifen, a performance-enhancing substance in violation of the Program. The suspension of Rosario, who is currently on the roster of the rookie-level Dominican Summer League Rockies, is effective at the start of the 2017 DSL season.