Possibility of suspension still there for Guillen
By BOB DUTTON
The Kansas City Star
Royals outfielder José Guillen must begin serving his 15-day suspension for violating baseball’s drug policy after Wednesday’s game unless officials from the commissioner’s office and the players’ union agree to another delay.
The two sides are in negotiations to strengthen the game’s drug policy under guidelines suggested by former U.S. Sen. George Mitchell after his investigation into performance-enhancing drugs.
Mitchell also recommended amnesty for all players cited in his report, which would eliminate Guillen’s suspension. Commissioner Bud Selig is delaying an agreement by insisting that previous violators be held accountable in some form, even if only through fines or mandatory counseling.
Guillen has just four hits in 24 at-bats through the first six games, and club officials acknowledge concerns that he is allowing the possible suspension to affect his play.
“I’m hopeful that he’s eliminated that,” manager Trey Hillman said. “I’m not sure that he has. It’s one of those things I choose not to talk to him about because I think that just infects his world.
“It’s there until it gets done. I’m hopeful that when it’s all said and done, and that day passes, that he can relax and just do what he does.”
The Royals previously indicated they were likely to recall outfielder Mitch Maier from Class AAA Omaha if Guillen’s suspension takes effect. Maier is three for nine at Omaha but has missed the last two games because of a minor wrist injury.
Guillen received a 15-day ban Dec. 6, one week before Mitchell released his report. Major League Baseball did not specify Guillen’s violations, but he was linked by the San Francisco Chronicle to the purchase of roughly $19,000 worth of steroids and human growth hormone during 2003-05.
The Royals knew Guillen faced a possible suspension when they signed him in early December to a three-year deal for $36 million. He has avoided comment on the issue pending its resolution.
Join the discussion
Share your observations and experiences about news. Lively, open debate is the goal, but please refrain from personal attacks or comments that are racist, vulgar or otherwise inappropriate. If you see an inappropriate comment, please click the "Report as violation" link to notify a KansasCity.com editor. Thanks for your feedback.