IS AROD HEADED FOR SUSPENSION?

Let the long wait begin. We have waited all year to see what was going to happen with the Biogenesis scandal. We may be getting closer. But if the rumor mill is correct we may have to wait until next week. But let the rumors continue to fly, let's discuss the latest.

It is being reported by numerous sources that suspensions to Alex Rodriguez and more than 20 other players could be issued next week after the All Star game, read that HERE. While it is believed that suspensions will not come until after the All Star game, we don't know how soon they could come. One thing we do know for sure, is that Bug Selig is gathering any and all evidence to use to his advantage if players are indeed suspended.

Ryan Braun is also in the hot seat, and despite being exonerated back in 2011 this time he may not be so  lucky. He could face up to a 100 game suspension, and as serious at that is he isn't answering anymore questions.  Considering how serious these charges are it doesn't look good to refuse to cooperate with MLB at this point which is what he supposedly did on June 29, read that HERE. It looks more suspicious when Rodriguez is reportedly cooperating and is set to speak to MLB officials on Friday, read that HERE.

What would a possible suspension mean for the Yankees? Well, a lot. We are coming up on the trade deadline, and if Rodriguez was in fact suspended it could force them into making a trade. Sure, Luis Cruz could play in that position amongst others....but the Yankees really need a bat. Now that Rodriguez has been rehabbing the Yankees have been hopeful that he is going to come back and contribute offensively and give Joe Girardi another much needed right handed bat to break up the lineup.

But what if that doesn't happen? What if he is suspended? Well, he has the right to appeal. If he does an appeal can take some time. An arbitrator would need time to look at all of the evidence in the case and they would give their ruling. This could take months, it doesn't mean it would....but I'm sure his lawyers would make things interesting. Also worth noting, if the case is taken to arbitration he would still be allowed to play while it is under review. He would not start serving suspension unless the arbitrator ruled to uphold the suspension....so this could take a while.

This is important to both the Yankees and baseball in general. It will be interesting to see what comes from the Rodriguez interview on Friday. Who knows what will happen with this. But this could be far from over. We will of course keep you updated on any suspension news, Yankees related or otherwise.

Anyone else tired of the mention of PEDS? Raise your hand.

Casey will have his own commentary on Bleeding Yankee Blue over the next 24 to 48 hours... he has a different take...

--Jeana Bellezza, BYB Senior Writer and Editor
Twitter: @NyPrincessJ

 


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