Astros Pitcher Suspended 80 Days For Drug Violation

HOUSTON, TX — A star pitcher for the Houston Astros has been suspended by Major League Baseball for 80 days after he tested positive for the performance-enhancing drug Boldenone. The ban became effective on Saturday.

Paulino's season is effectively over, and the player said he would not appeal the ban.

"It's unfortunate," Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow said on Saturday. "There's not a lot I can say about it that hasn't already been said. He's going to be suspended for 80 (games). He won't be eligible for the postseason."

The Houston Chronicle reported that the news was announced on Saturday at 5:11 p.m. EST; Paulino had already left Minute Maid Park, home of the Astros, and was unable to speak to the media.

"He feels bad about it," Luhnow said. "He feels bad that he's put the organization in this position. But he'll learn from it. I'm sure David's going to have a long and fruitful major league career. I think that's what's going to happen. He's got a lot of talent, for sure."

The penalty for first-time offenders is usually 80 days' suspension; Paulino will be on the MLB restricted list while serving the suspension and will not be considered a member of the team's 40-player roster.

» For more on this, go to the Houston Chronicle

– Image: Houston Astros