Report: Castillo facing 80-game suspension for failed drug test
Being benched Monday night after failing to run to first base on a popout apparently is not going to be the lowlight of Chicago White Sox catcher Welington Castillo's week.
During Wednesday night's game against the Orioles at Guaranteed Rate Field, Dominican Republic journalist Americao Celado reported Castillo is facing an 80-game suspension for testing positive for a performance enhancing drug.
Castillo played for the Sox Wednesday and could begin serving the suspension Thursday.
Major-league baseball has not confirmed the suspension.
"For me, those at this particular moment are rumors," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "MLB is the one that is in charge of that type of stuff. Until they release anything officially, I can't really comment on that."
The 31-year-old Castillo signed a two-year, $15 million contract with the Sox on Dec. 1. An 80-game suspension would cost him roughly $3.5 million in salary.
If Castillo is indeed suspended, Omar Navarez takes over as the White Sox's No. 1 catcher.
Class AAA Charlotte catcher Kevan Smith has played in 94 games with the Sox over the last two seasons, but the Knights placed him on the disabled list Tuesday.
Double-A Birmingham catcher Seby Zavala, who leads the Southern League with 10 home runs, is on the DL with a wrist injury.
Top catching prospect Zack Collins, also at Birmingham, likely needs more minor-league experience, so Charlotte catcher Alfredo Gonzalez appears to be the best option to replace Castillo.
Sox roll over Orioles:
It was a night of firsts in the White Sox's 11-1 win over Baltimore Wednesday at Guaranteed Rate Field.
In his 20th game (14th start) for the Sox dating back to last season, Dylan Covey earned his first major-league win. The 26-year-old righty pitched 7 innings and allowed 1 run on 6 hits and 1 walk to go with 8 strikeouts.
"It feels really good," said Covey, who has spent most of the current season with Class AAA Charlotte. "It took a while to get it; it's been a process for me. I learned a lot in Triple-A this year. I think I just became comfortable with myself on the mound. I don't fight myself anymore."
Adam Engel had the first 4-hit game of his career, raising his batting average from .183 to .212.
Jose Rondon hit his first career home run, a 2-run shot in the seventh inning.
After falling behind 1-0 in the second inning, Yoan Moncada put the White Sox in front for good with a 3-run homer in the third.
Designated hitter Matt Davidson (stiff back) was scratched before the game. Left fielder Leury Garcia has to exit in the fifth inning with a left ankle injury.