Blue Jays outfielder Martinez suspended for 80 games for drug violation

Toronto Blue Jays infielder Orelvis Martinez was suspended for 80 games on Sunday, two days after his major league debut, for violating Major League Baseball’s doping policy.

The 22-year-old from the Dominican Republic was called up last week but tested positive for clomiphene, a fertility drug that is on MLB’s list of banned performance-enhancing drugs.

Martinez said in a statement that he was prescribed the clomiphene drug Rejun 50 by a fertility clinic in his home country after trying unsuccessfully to start a family with his wife since 2020.

“I made a mistake in my attempt to start a family,” he said in a statement.

“In this context, I take full responsibility for my negligence and accept my suspension.”

Martinez signed with the Blue Jays for $3.5 million in 2018 and established himself as one of the most promising power hitter prospects in the minor leagues.

He can return in September.

“We were both surprised and disappointed to learn of Orelvis Martinez’s suspension,” Ross Atkins, executive vice president and general manager of the Blue Jays, said in a statement. “We will do everything in our power to ensure Orelvis learns from his mistake.”

“Orelvis has our support and we know he will get through this.”

Martinez can return to the team in September.

At 35-41, Toronto ranks last in the American League East. The Blue Jays rank 27th in the major leagues in runs scored (291) and could consider trading away top players as the July 30 trade deadline approaches.

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