For Kansas City Royals manager Ned Yost, his Opening Day lineup just got a little more interesting as it was announced today that Royals outfielder Jorge Bonifacio has been suspended 80 games in accordance with MLB policies on performance-enhancing substances. Bonifacio had tested positive for Boldenone and was projected by multiple outlets to be the starting right fielder for Kansas City.
MLB announces #Royals outfielder Jorge Bonifacio 80-game suspension without pay after testing positive for Boldenone. Suspension will commence at the start of the 2018 regular season.
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) March 10, 2018
Jorge Bonifacio Suspended 80 Games For PED Use
Bonifacio’s Career Profile
Making his MLB debut last season, Bonifacio was signed as an international free on December 9th, 2009. He would spend quite a few years in the Rookie League, in a time spanning from 2010-2013. During that 2013 year, Bonifacio would be promoted to the Double-A team for the Royals, and be promoted yet again to the Triple-A. After being in Triple-A for 2016, and a little bit of time in 2017, Bonifacio would be called up to the Royals. In 113 games with the team, Bonifacio hit a solid .255 batting average with 17 home runs and 40 RBI.
Impact Of Suspension
This makes things a lot more interesting for the Royals in terms of their outfield. After losing Lorenzo Cain, who earlier this offseason signed with the Milwaukee Brewers, there is an open spot in the Royals outfield. With Bonifacio suspended, that opens the competition up to new signing Jon Jay, as well as Paulo Orlando who could compete for that spot. Both have some experience playing in right field, which means it is anyone’s guess who will ultimately win the job. With Jorge Soler potentially making the move to left field, this competition could get very interesting. For now, Bonifacio will have to sit out and watch as someone potentially takes over his job.
