MLB: Boston’s Ortiz still waiting for test information
Associated Press
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Boston Red Sox slugger David Ortiz is still waiting for additional information regarding a positive test for performance-enhancing drugs in 2003.
Before Wednesday night’s game at Tampa Bay, Ortiz again said he will share the information, including what was in his system, with the Red Sox and the public.
“I’m trying to,” Ortiz said. It’s frustrating, but I’m trying to get to the bottom of this. I think about it everyday.”
The list of 104 major leaguers who tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs six years ago is now under court seal.
Ortiz declined comment when asked if the players’ union should go to federal court to have the documents related to his test unsealed.
There were no penalties for a positive test in 2003 — the anonymous tests were conducted to determine if it was necessary to impose mandatory random drug testing across the major leagues in 2004.
Ortiz was not in the starting lineup for Wednesday night’s game against Tampa Bay. Mike Lowell filled in at DH while Ortiz was rested, one day before Boston begins a four-game series at the New York Yankees.
“We’re going to get in there about four (Thursday morning),” Boston manager Terry Francona said. “DH Mike Lowell and give him a chance maybe to turn around and play third. Keeps our options open.”
Boston is 8-0 against the AL-East leading Yankees this season.
“There’s a lot of history,” Ortiz said. “The feeling is different. I’m not going to say what will happen next. Hopefully we’ll win (all the games left this year). They (the Yankees) don’t have to go to crazy because we’ve played well. They have a great team.”