The Cincinnati Reds will start the forthcoming 2024 MLB season without one of their star prospects, as Dominican infielder Noelvi Marte faces an 80-game suspension for flouting Major League Baseball’s banned substance policy.
As per an official statement from the Commissioner’s Office, Marte’s suspension will begin when the regular season commences, and it will be without pay.
Marte used Boldenone, an anabolic steroid, which is another example of an MLB player disobeying the league’s stringent anti-doping regulations.
Boldenone has been responsible for past suspensions, notably that of pitcher Jenrry Mejia, who gained notoriety as the single player in MLB history to incur three positive tests, resulting in a lifetime ban, that was later rescinded by the Commissioner.
How will the Cincinnati Reds cope without Marte?
Marte being absence casts a shadow on the Reds’ prospects for the upcoming season. Referred to as one of the premier talents in the league, the Dominican is number 23 in Baseball America’s prospect rankings and 21st in MLB Pipeline’s listings.
Additionally, he is the Cincinnati Reds’ top prospect, picked as a frontrunner for the National Rookie of the Year title before his suspension.
Marte made an impact during his debut season, where he showed his power in 35 matches, accumulating a spectacular .822 OPS, complete with 3 home runs and 15 RBIs, especially taking over the third base position.
Amid the current preseason, Marte showed promise, gathering three hits in ten plate appearances across four matches.
Noelvi joined the Reds during the 2022 trade deal with the Seattle Mariners, where he was among the package exchanged for Luis Castillo, alongside Edwin Arroyo, Andrew Moore, and Levi Stoudt.
Despite this setback, Marte’s talent is undeniable, leaving fans eagerly anticipating his return to the pitch after his suspension is concluded.
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