Matos Tests Positive for Banned Substance

Major League Baseball suspended Julius Matos for 15 games, the penalty for first time offenders, after testing positive for a banned substance.

It is not known if Matos tested positive for steroids or another performance enhancing drug banned under the minor league policy.

The thirty-year old was traded from the Expos to the Blue Jays in June 2004. Matos batted .293 with seven home runs and 42 RBI for the SkyChiefs last season.

Matos has seen his share of play in the major leagues. In 2002 he was with the San Diego Padres, and also has been part of the 25 man roster of the Royals. He has a career batting average of .280 in 11 minor league seasons with fifty career home runs and 417 RBI.

Raul Tablado is also sitting out the start of the season as he is continuing his suspension after testing positive late in the 2004 season.