Johan Rojas back in Phillies lineup amid reported appeal to 80-game suspension for failed drug test
When asked if he had a comment on his appeal or potential suspension, Rojas said he had to get ready for the game, an exhibition against Team Canada.
CLEARWATER, Fla. — Johan Rojas walked to his locker in the Phillies clubhouse just before 11:30 a.m., with his duffel bag slumped over his shoulder.
On a normal day, this would not be notable, but Wednesday was hardly a normal day. Less than 24 hours earlier, news broke that Rojas had reportedly tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug.
» READ MORE: Johan Rojas’ potential PED suspension leaves Phillies no choice but to act (again)
A source told The Inquirer that the center fielder would appeal the 80-game suspension, which is why he was back with his team the following morning. No ruling has been made on Rojas’s suspension.
Until there is one, he will continue to work out at the Phillies’ spring training complex and play in Grapefruit League games. The team didn’t waste any time in getting him back in the lineup.
Rojas is batting seventh in Wednesday’s exhibition game against Team Canada. When asked if he had a comment on his appeal or potential suspension, Rojas said he had to get ready for the game.
When asked if he’d comment afterward, he declined.
It’s unclear how long the appeal process will take. The Phillies have still not received any official word from Major League Baseball about next steps.
The ruling will be decided on by a neutral arbitrator, per the Major League Basic Agreement.