Dodgers Outfielder Manny Ramirez Suspended 50 Games for Drug Use

Players suspended for being in violation of baseball's drug policy are not paid. Thus, this suspension will cost Manny Ramirez $7.7 million, or roughly 31% of his $25-million annual salary.

In a statement released by the baseball players' union, Manny Ramirez said:

“Recently I saw a physician for a personal health issue. He gave me a medication, not a steroid, which he thought was OK to give me.

“Unfortunately, the medication was banned under our drug policy. Under the policy that mistake is now my responsibility. I have been advised not to say anything more for now. I do want to say one other thing; I’ve taken and passed about 15 drug tests over the past five seasons.”

Manny Ramirez leads the Dodgers in batting average (.348), on-base percentage (.492) and slugging percentage (.641). He is also tied for the team lead in home runs with six.

Ramirez signed a two-year, $45-million contract with LA in March, after protracted negotiations. The first year is guaranteed at $25 million and the second year is his option at $20 million.

The suspension will begin tonight and will last through July 3rd.

Manny Ramirez is the third player, but the highest profile, suspended this year under the major league program. He follows Philadelphia reliever J.C. Romero and Yankees pitcher Sergio Mitre.