Batting Champ Dee Gordon Suspended 80 Games for PED Violations

Miami Marlins second baseman Dee Gordon has been suspended 80 games for violating Major League Baseball’s performance-enhancing drug policy.

The reigning National League batting champion tested positive for exogenous testosterone and clostebol, MLB said.

Gordon hit .333 and stole 58 bases for the Marlins last season and is one of the most exciting players in the game thanks to his speed.

The positive tests come during the first year of Barry Bonds’ tenure as hitting coach. There’s nothing to suggest Bonds has anything to do with the situation but his checkered past will fuel speculation.

One would have to search far and wide to find a player who looks less like he’s taking performance-enhancing drugs than Gordon, who is generously listed at 170 pounds. His failed tests prove, once again, we just never know.

Gordon signed a 5-year, $50 million contract over the offseason and is being afforded plenty of support from his teammates and organization. His suspension disqualifies him from postseason play. It also means the Marlins’ chances to make the playoffs took a drastic hit.