Pinella re: Soto: “It’s a non-issue as far as I’m concerned”

June 26, 2009

Lou Pinella comments on Geovany Soto’s positive drug test for marijuana back in March during the World Baseball Classic. Soto has apologized and neither MLB nor the Cubs are going to sanction him. His penalty was a 2-year suspension from international play. It happened before the season, Soto was representing Team Puerto Rico and ost of all, he didn’t test positive for performance-enhancing drugs. Spliffs aren’t exactly the way to improve hand-eye coordination, or in Bradley’s case, remember how many outs there are.

LOU PINELLA:

I have smoked dope one time in my life, and it didn’t do a damn thing for me, ok? And I never tried it again. And I’m fortunate because of that. I do know that young people make mistakes at times, and they learn from mistakes. I’ve made a lot of mistakes in my life, personally, and I’ve learned from them. So how am I gonna — I read his comment. He knows what he did is wrong. And now he said he was embarrassed and sorry about it and it’s over with. It’s a non-issue as far as I’m concerned.

Geovany Soto tested positive for marijuana in March

June 25, 2009

Might this be the reason for Soto sucking this year? Not exactly a performance enhancer. Maybe it hanging over his head was affecting him. Guess we’ll see.

Soto tested positive back in March during the World Baseball Classic while he was playing for Puerto Rico. He didn’t play much and shouldn’t have played at all and won’t be able to for the next two years – the penalty imposed by the International Baseball Federation.

His positive test won’t affect his status with the Cubs or MLB. Evidently he knew he tested positive and had told the Cubs. He has never failed a test before.

SOTO:

While I fully acknowledge my inappropriate behavior, I want to assure my fans and my family that this was an isolated incident. I do not say this to minimize or deflect from my conduct and I fully understand the ramifications of my actions. I have and will accept any and all consequences.

I am fully dedicated to the game of baseball and my teammates, and I apologize for any distraction and embarrassment this may cause them.

Finally, I would like to thank the Chicago Cubs organization for its support in this matter. I take great pride in putting on my Cubs uniform every day and I look forward to helping the team achieve a successful season.

CUBS:

Geovany assured the organization this was an isolated incident and a misstep in judgment that will not be repeated. Though surprised and disappointed, the club supports Geovany as he takes responsibility for his actions and accepts the consequences.

Source: Chicago Sun-Times