Robinson Cano has been one of the most dominant second basemen in Major League Baseball over the past decade, earning numerous accolades and All-Star selections throughout his career.
However, his success has been marred by multiple positive drug tests for performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). In November 2020, Cano tested positive for the PED Stanozolol, resulting in a 162-game suspension for the entire 2021 season.
This suspension will likely have a significant impact on Cano’s career and legacy, as well as the perception of PED use in baseball. Despite his impressive statistics, Cano’s repeated use of PEDs has tarnished his reputation and cast doubt on his Hall of Fame chances.
We will examine why Robinson Cano was suspended, the impact of his suspension on his career, and the broader implications of PED use in baseball.
Robinson Cano’s Positive Drug Tests
Cano’s First Positive Test in 2018
In May 2018, Robinson Cano was suspended for 80 games after testing positive for Furosemide, a diuretic that is often used as a masking agent for performance-enhancing drugs.
Cano initially denied knowingly taking the substance but later admitted to using it to treat a medical condition. He served his suspension and returned to play for the Seattle Mariners.
Cano’s Second Positive Test in 2020
In November 2020, Cano tested positive for Stanozolol, a synthetic steroid that is used to build muscle mass and increase strength.
This was Cano’s second positive test for PEDs, resulting in a much harsher penalty than his first offense. He was suspended for the entire 2021 season, which cost him his salary for the year.
The Banned Substance Stanozolol
Stanozolol is a synthetic steroid that is similar in structure to testosterone. It is used to build muscle mass, increase strength, and improve athletic performance.
Stanozolol is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of prohibited substances, and its use is strictly banned in professional sports.
Comparison of Penalties for First and Second Offenses
Under the MLB’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program, the penalties for PED use increase with each subsequent offense. A first-time offender is typically suspended for 80 games, while a second offense results in a 162-game suspension.
A third offense can result in a lifetime ban from baseball. Cano’s second positive test for PEDs resulted in the harsher penalty of a 162-game suspension.
Cano’s Suspension and Its Impact
Details of the 162-game Suspension for the 2021 Season
Robinson Cano’s 162-game suspension for his second positive PED test means that he will miss the entire 2021 season, including the postseason.
This is a significant blow to the New York Mets, who acquired Cano in a trade with the Seattle Mariners in 2018. The Mets will not have to pay Cano’s salary for the 2021 season, but they will still be responsible for the remainder of his contract in the following years.
Salary Forfeiture and Financial Impact
As a result of his suspension, Robinson Cano will forfeit his salary for the entire 2021 season, which amounts to $24 million. This is a substantial financial penalty for Cano, who has already earned over $200 million in his career.
The forfeiture of his salary will also have an impact on the New York Mets, who will not have to pay Cano’s salary for the year but will still be responsible for his contract in the following years.
Cano’s Age and Future Prospects
Robinson Cano is currently 38 years old, and his suspension will cause him to miss an entire season at this late stage in his career. This raises questions about his future prospects and whether he will be able to bounce back from the suspension.
Cano’s age and declining performance in recent years also make it unlikely that he will be able to play at the same level when he returns from suspension.
Suspension’s Impact on Cano’s Hall of Fame Chances
Robinson Cano’s suspension for PED use is likely to have a significant impact on his chances of being elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame.
While Cano’s statistics are Hall of Fame-worthy, his repeated use of PEDs has tarnished his legacy and raised questions about the legitimacy of his achievements.
Many voters for the Hall of Fame have expressed a reluctance to vote for players who have been linked to PED use, and Cano’s suspension may further hinder his chances of being elected to the Hall of Fame.
Cano’s Legacy and Reputation
Cano’s Reputation Among Fans and Analysts
Robinson Cano has been a highly regarded player throughout his career, known for his smooth defensive play, excellent hitting, and consistent performance on the field.
However, his reputation took a hit after his first positive PED test in 2018, with some fans and analysts questioning the legitimacy of his achievements. Cano’s second positive test in 2020 has further damaged his reputation among fans and analysts.
How Cano’s Suspension Affects His Legacy
Robinson Cano’s suspension for PED use is likely to have a negative impact on his legacy. While he was considered one of the best second basemen in baseball during his career, his repeated use of PEDs raises questions about the legitimacy of his accomplishments.
Cano’s suspension will always be a part of his legacy and will be remembered as a stain on an otherwise impressive career.
Comparison to Other Players Who Have Been Suspended for Ped Use
Robinson Cano is just one of many players who have been suspended for PED use in recent years. Other high-profile players, such as Alex Rodriguez and Manny Ramirez, have also been suspended for PED use during their careers.
However, the repeated nature of Cano’s offense and the timing of his suspension (late in his career) make it more damaging to his reputation.
How Cano’s Suspension Fits Into the Larger Conversation About Peds in Baseball
Robinson Cano’s suspension is just one example of the ongoing problem of PEDs in baseball. While the MLB has taken steps to address the issue, such as implementing drug testing and increasing penalties for offenders, PED use remains a significant problem in the sport.
Cano’s suspension highlights the need for continued vigilance and enforcement of anti-doping policies in baseball.
Robinson Cano’s Suspensions for PED Use
| Year | Positive Test | Substance | Suspension | Salary Forfeited | Impact on Legacy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Yes | Furosemide | 80 games | $11,851,852 | Reputation damage |
| 2020 | Yes | Stanozolol | 162 games | $24,000,000 | Major setback |
The table summarizes Robinson Cano’s two positive PED tests, the substances involved, the length of his suspensions, the salary he forfeited, and the impact on his legacy. The first positive test in 2018 for Furosemide resulted in an 80-game suspension and forfeiture of $11,851,852.
The second positive test in 2020 for Stanozolol led to a 162-game suspension and forfeiture of $24,000,000. The table also notes that Cano’s reputation was damaged by the first positive test, and the second positive test is considered a major setback for his legacy.
FAQs
What is Stanozolol, the substance Robinson Cano tested positive for?
Stanozolol is a synthetic steroid that is used to build muscle and increase strength. It is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States and is banned by the MLB.
Did Robinson Cano appeal his suspension?
No, Cano did not appeal his suspension. Instead, he accepted the suspension and apologized to his teammates and fans for his actions.
How much money did Robinson Cano forfeit due to his suspension?
Robinson Cano forfeited approximately $24 million in salary due to his 162-game suspension for the 2021 season.
Will Robinson Cano be eligible for the Hall of Fame?
Robinson Cano’s suspension for PED use will likely have a negative impact on his Hall of Fame chances. While his statistics are impressive, the use of PEDs raises questions about the legitimacy of his accomplishments.
What is the MLB’s policy on PED use?
The MLB has a comprehensive anti-doping program that includes random drug testing, increased penalties for offenders, and educational programs for players.
The use of performance-enhancing drugs is strictly prohibited, and offenders face significant consequences, including suspension and financial penalties.
Conclusion
Robinson Cano’s suspension for PED use is a significant blow to his career and legacy. While his statistics are Hall of Fame-worthy, his repeated use of PEDs has tarnished his reputation and raised questions about the legitimacy of his achievements.
Cano’s suspension will always be a part of his legacy, and it will be remembered as a stain on an otherwise impressive career.
The impact of Cano’s suspension on his future prospects remains to be seen, but it is clear that PED use continues to be a significant problem in baseball.
It is up to the MLB and its players to work towards eliminating PED use and restoring the integrity of the sport.
