The Philadelphia Phillies are dealing with another major setback.
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Outfielder Johan Rojas is reportedly facing an 80-game suspension for a positive test tied to a performance-enhancing substance, according to NBC Sports Philadelphia. Rojas is already appealing the potential ban.
If it sticks, it’s a big blow.
An 80-game suspension would knock Rojas out for half the season and make him ineligible for the postseason. For a team with October expectations, that matters.
And it’s starting to feel like a trend in Philly.
Reliever José Alvarado was hit with the same 80-game suspension last May. Max Kepler also failed the league’s drug program this offseason after his time with the club.
Rojas, 25, wasn’t exactly locked into a major role heading into the year. He hit .224 with limited power across 71 games last season and was tracking toward a fourth outfielder spot this spring, valued more for his defense and speed than his bat.
Still, he’s a useful piece. And now the Phillies may have to move forward without him for a significant stretch.
If Philadelphia needs depth, utility man Dylan Moore and outfielder Bryan De La Cruz are among the names who could get a longer look.