Cubs News: Marte's statement after PED suspension |
Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Starling Marte has received an 80-game suspension without pay after testing positive for Nandrolone, a performance-enhancing substance, in violation of Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.
Marte released a statement on Tuesday afternoon after hearing about his suspension. "I have been informed that I have tested positive in one of the tests that are regularly done in my job," Marte stated. "In this very difficult moment I apologize to my family, the Pittsburgh Pirates, my teammates, my fans, and baseball in general. 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. I promise to learn the lesson that this ordeal has left me. God bless you." Marte and the Pirates just finished a three-game sweep of the Cubs at Wrigley Field over the weekend in which he was 3 for 13 with a homer.