Bartolo Colon suspended for drug violation

A’s starting pitcher Bartolo Colon has been suspended 50 games for a violation of Major League Baseball’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.

Colon, 39, reportedly tested positive for testosterone. He will miss the final 40 games of the regular season and 10 postseason games if the team makes it that far.

The A’s were 1/2 game behind the Orioles and Rays in the American League wild card race going into Wednesday’s game.

Colon is the second Bay Area player to get a 50-game suspension in the past week for elevated testosterone. Giants outfielder Melky Cabrera was suspended Aug. 15.

“It’s a shock,” A’s reliever Grant Balfour said. “He’s a guy that we’re definitely relying on right now. I guess you could say it’s bad timing any time, but especially now.”

Colon has enjoyed a resurgence this season, going 10-9 with a 3.43 ERA.

Like Cabrera, Colon issued an apology and accepted his penalty.

“I apologize to the fans, to my teammates and to the Oakland A’s,” he said in a statement released by the players’ association. “I accept responsibility for my actions and I will serve my suspension as required by the Joint Drug Program.”

RSoxGuy wrote:i guess it shouldn't be surprise i mean the guy was off the map for afew yrs stunk it up w the sox and suckstripes but now hes got 10 wins and 343?

the thing that gets me is these clowns know how strict and random testing is but still try it? cmon man