SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Royals outfielder Jorge Bonifacio, who was expected to be the Opening Day starter in right field, instead has been suspended for 80 games by Major League Baseball for testing positive for Boldenone, a performance-enhancing substance.
Bonifacio's 80-game suspension will commence at the start of the 2018 regular season. He will still be allowed to remain in camp and practice with the team during Spring Training.
"This is obviously a very disappointing situation for the Royals, our fans and Jorge," Royals general manager Dayton Moore said in a statement. "He is an incredible person who just made a mistake. Jorge will have our full support as he deals with the consequences of this violation."
Bonifacio was unavailable for comment Saturday.
Boldenone is an anabolic androgenic steroid developed for veterinary use.
"Of course, it was a shock," Royals manager Ned Yost said after the Royals' 10-3 loss to Arizona. "Jorge Bonifacio is one of the finest young guys we've got on this team. I don't know the details. I still don't. But it was very shocking when Dayton told me this was happening.
"It really made me kind of sick to my stomach a little bit, because he is such a neat kid and a big part of our team. But we'll get through it. It's 80 games and we'll continue to support him and make sure this never happens again. Like I said, I'm not sure exactly the circumstances, but I'm sure that'll all come to light here soon."
Bonifacio likely will be replaced by either recently-acquired Jonathan Jay or Jorge Soler in right field. It's possible, too, that the Royals will keep five outfielders on the roster, which could mean non-roster invitees Michael Saunders or Tyler Collins could find a spot with Bonifacio's absence.
"I think Dayton in his foresight and wisdom has set us up for situations that we can't foresee," Yost said. "With the depth that he has given us, and the quality depth he has given us, luckily for us, we're a little bit covered."
Bonifacio, 24, hit .255 with 17 home runs and 40 RBIs in his rookie season in 2017.