Cesar Puello has been a guy that has brought great joy to me over the past couple of months. Watching him perform and get his career back on track provided many Mets fans with hope that help may be on the way in Flushing.
I woke up this morning with a terrible feeling of disappointment. One of my favorite Mets prospects, and a guy that seemed to be back on the road to doing special things in a Mets uniform, was named in the biggest PED scandal since the Mitchell Report named some of the biggest names in the game years ago.
After being named in yesterday’s ESPN report, Puello could be facing a 50 game suspension due to violating the league’s substance abuse policy. That would practically derail Puello’s come back season, and cause many to question if his outstanding numbers in 2013 are a result of hard work or if he received some help from a banned substance.
Depending on if and when these suspensions are handed down, the remainder of Puello’s season could be a wash. Missing 50 games in the middle of any prospect’s development is a big blow, but Puello really seemed to be on the fast track again, and it could be devastating for the young man. He was locked in and on course to hit Triple-A by the All-Star break, and possibly make an appearance in Flushing this September. That would almost all be washed away.
This suspension wouldn’t be a death sentence for Puello, but it would definitely be a step backwards and a major disappointment to all the fans that Puello won over this season with his play.
(Photo Credit: Gordon Donovan)
This is definitely THE disappointment of the year so far. The hope is that this “star” turn for Puello is a result of hardwork and things finally starting to come together AND that this impending suspension slows down but doesn’t stunt his future success.
It’s a lot to hope for, but what else do we have.
I agree. I’m doing a lot of hoping right now. This would be a huge disappointment, and saying that is an understatement.
Lets not forget that nothing has been proven and that he has failed no drug tests.
I know. I know. But I feel; dirty rooting that he comes out of this unscathed. He had another big night tonight.
I will admit I feel a little uncomfortable knowing his connection to biogenesis and the fact he’s having a great season. He is on pace for about 26 homeruns and over 30 stolen bases. This kid has great talent and if he can combine that power, speed and some work ethic which is supposedly improved this year, I believe he can become something special. He has not failed a drug test and since he is on the 40 man roster, he is protected by the rules of the CBA which states a player cannot be suspended unless he has failed a drug test. Another thought, why would MLB leak this to the media? The only real reason I can think of is publicity. If they really wanted to give out suspensions, I think they would have waited until they had some credible evidence. Another two hits and hr from him tonight. Truly, he is one of the best position prospects the Mets have in a position of great need. If he averts the suspension, he should be a late season call up.