A terrible Pirates start just became a full-fledged disaster.
Starling Marte, Pittsburgh’s All-Star center fielder and two-time Gold Glove Award winner, has been suspended 80 games by Major League Baseball after testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance.
Marte tested positive for Nandrolone, MLB announced Tuesday.
“In this very difficult moment, I apologize to my family, the Pittsburgh Pirates, my teammates, my fans, and baseball in general,” Marte said in a statement. “Neglect and lack of knowledge have led me to this mistake with the high price to pay of being away from the field that I enjoy and love so much. With much embarrassment and helplessness, I ask for forgiveness for unintentionally disrespecting so many people who have trusted in my work and have supported me so much.”
A Pirates team with playoff aspirations has started 6-7, but 80 is suddenly their most concerning number. Now the Pirates won’t see Marte until game 94. This could be what turns a team of fringe contenders into a team of sellers.
Marte, who has been the Pirates’ No. 2 hitter, had ascended to become the team’s best player. He batted .311 with nine homers and 47 steals last season, and this offseason replaced Andrew McCutchen in center field. Marte, 28, had started this season slowly, slashing .241/.288/.370.
The Pirates now could turn back to McCutchen in center field, or this could prompt them to call up top outfield prospect Austin Meadows.
Marte, in the fourth year of a six-year, $31 million contract, will forfeit about $2.5 million in salary during the ban.