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The Cincinnati Reds' promising prospect Noelvi Marte has been suspended for 80 games without pay for violating the MLB's rules on foreign substance usage. Marte was ranked as the no. 1 prospect for the Reds by the MLB Pipeline while ranking 21st overall in the league.
According to Anthony Castrovince of MLB.com, he tested positive for Boldenone, a banned anabolic-androgenic steroid. Marte's suspension became effective from the 2024 regular season, and due to this, he can not join his team in the postseason, if the Reds reach this year.
As per Charlie Goldsmith of Enquirer, the 23-year-old Dominican infielder expressed his innocence for the first time to the media.
"In reality, it just appeared in my system. I really don't know how it came about, unfortunately. That's as far as I know," said Marte, per Goldsmith.
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However, fans remain skeptical and have expressed their doubts about Noelvi Marte's claims on social media.
"Dude has no idea how banned substances are getting into his body? Just admit you cheated and got caught," a fan commented.
"Reallly? Come on kid, give a better explanation. Known PED, step it up kid," a fan tweeted.
"Situations like this should result in a lifetime ban if he tests positive again. Own up to it and move on," a fan replied.
A couple of fans pointed out that the PED in Noelvi Marte's system had to be injected, which makes his surprise all the more questionable.
"Wasn't the PED found one he had to inject? Why is this a surprise to him," a fan tweeted.
"It’s a PED that has to be pinned but he doesn’t know who stuck him with the needle. Classic," a fan commented.
Meanwhile, one fan is hoping for more honesty once a player gets popped for PEDs.
"One day I just want an athlete to stand up and go "yeah, I took the drugs to play better and I got busted," a fan replied.
Last year, Noelvi Marte debuted with the Reds, playing 35 games and delivering promising stats with 15 RBIs, 15 runs, and three home runs, as well as an impressive .316/.366/.456 and .822 OPS. His suspension has forced the team to revise their plans for the time being.
He last played in the Dominican Winter League, participating in only four games for Gigantes del Cibao, and has not played since.
Noelvi Marte hopes to join the Reds soon
Entering Monday, the Cincinnati Reds have completed a total of 66 games with a 32-34 record, tied with the Chicago Cubs for second in the NL Central. If everything goes well, Noelvi Marte will be free from suspension by the end of the month.
Although there are no updates from their front office regarding him, Marte is optimistic about joining the squad this season. He also shared about his team’s support during his difficult phase.
“I felt anxious and ready to get back. Distraught that I wouldn't be able to be out there. Fortunately, I'll be able to be out there soon," Noelvi Marte said through an interpreter.
It remains to be seen how the Reds will move forward with the youngster once his suspension finally ends.
