A young Cincinnati Reds player has been hit with a hefty penalty for a PED violation.
It was announced Friday that Reds infielder Noelvi Marte has been suspended 80 games for using a banned substance. According to MLB’s media release, Marte tested positive for using Boldenone, which is an anabolic steroid.
Marte, 22, was acquired by the Reds in a 2022 trade that sent pitcher Luis Castillo to the Mariners. Marte played shortstop throughout the minor leagues but was primarily at third base last season with Cincinnati. He is a promising hitter and batted .316 with a .822 OPS in 35 big-league games last season.
Marte’s suspension will begin at the start of the regular season.