NEW YORK -- Mets pitcher Jenrry Mejia made baseball history Friday, becoming the first player to be permanently suspended by Major League Baseball after testing positive again for a performance-enhancing substance.
MLB said Mejia tested positive for boldenone and that the right-hander also is permanently suspended from playing minor league baseball.
It marked his third positive PED test in the past year, triggering the lifetime expulsion.
Mejia, 26, may apply to commissioner Rob Manfred for reinstatement in one year. If reinstated, he would have to sit out a minimum of two years before being able to pitch again in the majors. He had been starting with Licey in the Dominican Republic during winter ball.
MLB suspensions are honored by affiliated leagues in other countries, such as in Japan, South Korea and Mexico. However, suspended players are allowed to compete in winter leagues, such as in Mejia's native Dominican Republic. Independent leagues are not compelled to honor MLB suspensions but may choose to do so.
