Boston Red Sox minor league catcher facing second drug suspension
By David Hill
Boston Red Sox minor league catcher Jace Romanski has been suspended for a second time after failing a test for amphetamines.
On Thursday, it was announced that two minor league players have been suspended for failed drug tests. Boston Red Sox catcher Jake Romanski has been suspended for 100 games, as he failed his second test for a banned stimulant. Meanwhile, minor league free agent pitcher Landon Hughes was suspended 68 games for testing positive for the steroid Turinabol.
These suspensions are the latest in a flurry that have come out in the past few weeks. In total, twelve minor league players have been suspended for various drugs, and three players have suspended on the major league policy.
While both players are going to miss significant time in the 2018 season, it is difficult to imagine that these suspensions will dramatically change their outlook. Romanski is essentially minor league filler at this point, buried on the Red Sox depth chart. Hughes had been released by the Braves last month, and had yet to locate another opportunity.
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Romanski played decently when given the chance last year. He split his time between Portland Sea Dogs and the Pawtucket Red Sox, getting his first taste of AAA action. The 27 year old produced a .250/.263/.290 batting line, hitting one homer and four doubles in 179 plate appearances. His defense is his calling card, as he threw out 43% of would be base stealers last year.
Hughes’ time with the Braves was short. he was a seventh round draft choice in the 2017 MLB Amateur Draft, and appeared in 16 games, mostly at the Rookie League level. The 23 year old had a solid 1.99 ERA and a 1.147 WHiP, striking out 28 batters in 22.2 innings. Once clear of his suspension, it would not be a surprise to see him get another look.
Next: Raudy Read suspended for failed drug test
Boston Red Sox minor league catcher Jake Romanski and minor league free agent pitcher Landon Hughes have each been suspended for failed drug tests. Chances are, this will not change either player’s outlook for the coming season.