Tampa Bay Rays Prospect Alex Colome Suspended For Steroid Use

Jun 22, 2013; Bronx, NY, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Alex Colome (37) pitches during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

Tampa Bay Rays pitching prospect Alex Colome was suspended 50 games yesterday by Major League Baseball for a positive steroid test. The steroid is reportedly Boldenon, which is an anabolic steroid intended for veterinary use, specifically in horses. The Rays released the following statement:

"While we are disappointed with the news of Alex Colome’s suspension, we are confident that he will get back on the saddle after his 50 game hiatus. Our mane concern at this point is with our Major League roster and coming out of the gate strong against the Blue Jays next Monday. We were hoping Alex could be a workhorse for us during Jeremy Hellickson’s absence, but unfortunately, he’ll need to jockey for a spot in the bullpen at the conclusion of his suspension. We expect Colome to work his tail off upon his return, and we look forward to him rejoining the team."

OK, OK, so that’s not actually what the team said. Per the Tampa Bay Times:

"We were disappointed to learn of Alex Colome’s violation of Major League Baseball’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. We fully support Major League Baseball’s policy and its efforts to eliminate performance-enhancing substances from our game. Per the protocol outlined in the Joint Drug Program, the organization will not comment further on this matter."

Colome made his major league debut last season for the Rays, starting three games mid-season against the Miami Marlins, New York Yankees, and Detroit Tigers. He finished 1-1 with a 2.25 ERA and provided some serviceable depth to the rotation during Alex Cobb’s absence. Jason Parks of Baseball Prospectus has Colome listed as the third best prospect in the Rays farm system and he was slated to compete for some starts while Jeremy Hellickson recovers from off-season elbow surgery. Alex Colome becomes the third Tampa Bay Rays player to be suspended for performance enhancing drugs, along with Juan Salas and Manny Ramirez. The Rays also have had numerous minor league players suspended in recent years.

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