MLB commissioner Bud Selig addressed A-Rod’s suspension in a statement saying he was “proud of the comprehensive nature of our efforts – not only with regard to random testing, groundbreaking blood testing for human Growth Hormone and one of the most significant longitudinal profiling programs in the world, but also our investigative capabilities, which proved vital to the Biogenesis case.”
Selig also added in the statement that Rodriguez’s punishment was covered under the drug program’s protocols and the player’s “use and possession of numerous forms of prohibited performance-enhancing substances, including testosterone and human growth hormone, over the course of multiple years.”
“Rodriguez’s discipline under the Basic Agreement is for attempting to cover-up his violations of the program by engaging in a course of conduct intended to obstruct and frustrate the Office of the Commissioner’s investigation,” Selig said in the statement.
The remaining 12 players suspended for 50 games for ties to Biogenesis include:
Nelson Cruz of the Texas Rangers
Everth Cabrera of the San Diego Padres
Jhonny Peralta of the Detroit Tigers
Antonio Bastardo, Phillies reliever
Francisco Cervelli, Yankees catcher (on DL)
Jordany Valdespin, Mets outfielder (minors)
Jesus Montero, Mariners catcher (minors)
Cesar Puello, Mets outfielder (minors)
Sergio Escalona, Astros pitcher (minors)
Fernando Martinez, Yankees outfielder (minors)
Fautino De Los Santos, free-agent pitcher
Jordan Norberto, free-agent pitcher
