Washington Nationals catcher prospect Tres Barrera has received an 80-game suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug.
Barrera becomes the second Nationals player since 2005 to be suspended for a PED test, according to Mark Zuckerman of MASN Sports. Raudy Read, who is currently on Washington’s big league roster, served an 80-game suspension in 2018.
Barrera released a statement through MLB Players’ Association, stating he unknowingly used the banned substance.
“After conducting an appeal process, I am saddened to confirm that I have failed a test under MLB’s Joint Drug Agreement for DHCMT, and the arbitrator has decided to uphold the suspension. From the initial failed test to losing the appeal, this all has come as a complete surprise as I have never, and will never knowingly use a banned substance. I have worked too hard and given too much to this sport to disrespect and cheat the game that I love. I would never do anything to dishonor my family, teammates, and coaches, or do anything to let down the many young ball players that look up to me.
“I apologize to the Nationals’ organization, my teammates, fans, and my family, for the negative attention this has brought. I will continue to work to find answers to the many questions that remain surrounding this drug to clear my name but most importantly to prevent this from happening to anyone else. I look forward to returning to baseball and contributing to the team alongside my brothers.”
Barrera, 25, was a sixth-round pick of the Nationals in 2016 out of the University of Texas. He made his MLB debut last September, playing in two games during the Nationals’ World Series-winning season.
He was on the club’s 60-man player pool and 40-man roster prior to his suspension.
Last season, Barrera hit .249/.323/.381 with 23 doubles and eight home runs with 46 runs batted in.
