Royals’ Jorge Bonifacio suspended 80 games

Royals’ Jorge Bonifacio is facing an 80-game suspension by the MLB, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post. The suspension will begin at the start of the regular season.

Bonifacio tested positive for Boldenone, a performance-enhancing drug. The suspension comes following a solid rookie campaign for the former highly-regarded prospect.

Bonifacio, 24, hit .255/.320/.432 with 17 homers, 40 RBIs, and 15 doubles in 115 games in Kansas City last season. Bonifacio saw time primarily in right field with the Royals, and his suspension now opens up a roster spot for the recently re-signed Mike Moustakas. This also opens up competition in Kansas City for playing time between Jon Jay, Jorge Soler, Paulo Orlando, and a number of others. This suspension could also lead the Royals to looking into the free-agent market to add another bat while Bonifacio serves his suspension.