Robinson Cano tested positive for Furosemide, a diuretic.
Seattle Mariners All-Star second baseman Robinson Cano has been suspended 80 games for violating baseball's joint drug agreement.
The league announced the suspension today in a stunning development for the anchor in the middle of the Mariners' lineup and a club expected to contend for a post-season spot in the American League.
Cano tested positive for Furosemide, a diuretic.
In a statement released through the players' association, Cano says, "this substance was given to me by a licensed doctor in the Dominican Republic to treat a medical ailment," adding, he didn't realize it was banned.
This is the first major strike in a career that has Hall of Fame potential — Cano was trending toward being one of the few current players with a chance to reach 3,000 hits in his career and has been a consummate defensive standout.
He is an eight-time All-Star but now must deal with the stigma of a suspension.
— with files from The Canadian Press