Henry Owens suspended for 50 games

As Jrsyeagle reported in yesterday's Chum Bucket, Henry Owens has been suspended for 50 games.

The commissioner's office announced Tuesday that Marlins right-hander Henry Owens has been suspended 50 games for violating the joint drug prevention and treatment program.

Owens tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance and will serve the suspension at the start of the 2009 season.

A Miami native and product of Barry University, Owens said: "I made a mistake. I apologize. Now I have to deal with the consequences and work hard to get through this situation."

The Marlins issued the following statement: "We are disappointed that Henry Owens received a positive test, and fully endorse the discipline outlined in the MLB policy. We will continue to work with and educate our players to help prevent any further violations."

If I had to guess Henry was trying to rush back after having shoulder surgery earlier in the year.  Not exactly the smartest move considering that being caught means he won't be getting a paycheck for almost a third of the season.  Assuming the players are paid in the same manor, i.e. numbers of games eligible, Henry just forfeited about a third of his 2009 income.

I guess the one good thing is that he now has time to continue rehabbing on a more normal schedule and won't rush back.  But trying to rush back, by whatever means, produces one costly lesson to learn and it is one the young Mr. Owens is about to experience.