SOURCES: MLB TO ANNOUNCE DRUG SUSPENSIONS SOON
MLB: Major League Baseball has told the union which players it intends to suspend in its drug investigation and which ones will receive lengthier penalties for their roles in the Biogenesis case, two people familiar with the talks told the Associated Press.
The sides are trying to reach as many agreements as possible that would avoid grievance hearings, and talks could push back an announcement until Friday.
MLB hopes to announce the penalties for all players involved at the same time, both people said, speaking on condition of anonymity because no announcements were authorized.
Three-time MVP Alex Rodriguez of the New York Yankees stands to receive the longest suspension. The stiffer penalties for some players are tied to other alleged violations, including not being truthful to MLB investigators.
Three 2013 All-Stars could face bans: Texas OF Nelson Cruz, San Diego SS Everth Cabrera and Detroit SS Jhonny Peralta. Chicago White Sox: The White Sox scratched RHP Jake Peavy from his Tuesday night start before he reportedly was traded to the Red Sox and recalled rookie Andre Rienzo, who made his major-league debut and is the first Brazilian to pitch in the majors. Houston: RHP Bud Norris was scratched from his scheduled start Tuesday night amid speculation he could be traded before today’s non-waiver deadline. Minnesota: C Joe Mauer returned to the lineup Tuesday after missing six games for the birth of his twin girls.