Emmanuel Clase may have to wait until 2021 to make his debut with the Cleveland Indians, as the relief pitcher has been suspended for performance-enhancing drug use.
Clase, who was the key piece the Indians acquired from the Texas Rangers as part of the Corey Kluber trade over the winter, has been suspended 80 games for testing positive for a banned substance called Boldenone. The Indians said in a statement that they are “disappointed” but will welcome the 22-year-old back after he serves the suspension.
The suspension doesn’t begin until the season actually begins. Here’s a statement from the Indians: pic.twitter.com/iHdhazMLRp
— Zack Meisel (@ZackMeisel) May 1, 2020
Clase is considered an excellent pitching prospect. The right-hander was impressive in 21 appearances for the Rangers last season, posting a 2.31 ERA with 21 strikeouts in 23 1/3 innings.
Should the MLB season be shortened, Clase may not pitch at all for the Indians in 2020.
