Toronto Blue Jays infielder Orelvis Martinez has been suspended for 80 games, just two days after making his Major League debut. The suspension came after Martinez tested positive for clomiphene, a fertility drug that is on the MLB’s banned substances list.
In a statement, Martinez explained that he was prescribed Rejun 50, which contains clomiphene, by a fertility clinic in his homeland as he and his girlfriend had been trying unsuccessfully to start a family since 2020. He took full responsibility for his negligence and accepted his suspension.
Martinez signed with the Blue Jays in 2018 for $3.5m and had established himself as one of the top power-hitting prospects in the minor leagues. The team’s executive vice president and general manager, Ross Atkins, expressed surprise and disappointment at the news of Martinez’s suspension. However, he stated that the team would support Martinez through this challenge and help him learn from his mistake.
The Blue Jays currently hold the last position in the American League East division with 35 wins and 41 losses.