Cleveland Indians pitcher Emmanuel Clase will miss 80 games due to a PED suspension. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Indians reliever Emmanuel Clase suspended 80 games for PED use

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Steve DelVecchio | Last updated 5/1/20

Emmanuel Clase may have to wait until 2021 to make his debut with the Cleveland Indians. The relief pitcher has been suspended for performance-enhancing drug use.

Clase, who was the key piece the Indians acquired from the Texas Rangers as part of the Corey Kluber trade over the winter, has been suspended 80 games for testing positive for a banned substance called Boldenone. The Indians said in a statement that they are “disappointed” but will welcome the 22-year-old back after he serves the suspension.

The suspension doesn’t begin until the season actually begins. Here’s a statement from the Indians: pic.twitter.com/iHdhazMLRp

— Zack Meisel (@ZackMeisel) May 1, 2020

Clase is considered an excellent pitching prospect. The right-hander was impressive in 21 appearances for the Rangers last season, posting a 2.31 ERA with 21 strikeouts in 23 1/3 innings.

Should the MLB season be shortened, Clase may not pitch at all for the Indians in 2020.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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