San Francisco pitcher Luis Custodio and free agent pitcher Luis Sierra have both received 56-game suspensions due to positive drug tests. The announcements were made on Monday by the office of the Commissioner of Major League Baseball, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enforce drug regulations within the sport.
Both players tested positive for Stanozolol, an anabolic steroid banned under the minor league drug program. Custodio, a 21-year-old left-hander, had a challenging season with the Giants Black team in the Dominican Summer League last year. He recorded a 2-1 win-loss record alongside a 7.94 earned run average (ERA) in 12 relief appearances. Custodio had recently returned from Tommy John surgery and signed with the Giants in 2023.
In contrast, 20-year-old right-hander Sierra had a brief stint with the DSL Orioles, where he went 0-2 with a 9.95 ERA in 11 relief appearances after signing with the Baltimore Orioles for a $10,000 bonus in June 2023. Sierra was released on January 5, 2025, and his suspension will take effect upon his signing with a major league organization.
This incident marks the third suspension in the current year related to positive drug tests. Notably, free agent outfielder Max Kepler was suspended for 80 games last Friday under the major league program after testing positive for Epitrenbolone.
The enforcement of drug policies remains crucial in maintaining the integrity of the sport. Organizations continue to emphasize the importance of adhering to these regulations, as the consequences of violations can significantly impact players’ careers and teams’ rosters.
