Francisco Rivero and Raudi Perez suspended for drug violations

Washington Nationals catcher Francisco Rivero and free agent pitcher Raudi Perez have each received 56-game suspensions following positive tests for the performance-enhancing substance Stanozolol.

Rivero, 18, tested positive under the minor league drug program. Perez, 19, tested positive under the program for minor leaguers assigned outside of the United States and Canada. Perez previously played in the Dominican Summer League for the Padres organization before being released in September; his suspension will commence upon signing with a new major league organization.

This marks the thirteenth player disciplined for a drug violation this year. Other recent disciplinary actions include season-long suspensions for Jurickson Profar and an 80-game ban for Max Kepler.