When Padres' Nelson Cruz cited his stomach infection behind his decision to use PEDs

In August 2013, San Diego Padres designated hitter and right fielder Nelson Cruz cited his stomach infection behind his decision to use PEDs. His admission came after being given a 50-game ban for connections to the Florida anti-aging clinic Biogenesis.

In an official statement, Nelson wrote:

"I have been notified by the Commissioner of Major League Baseball that I have been suspended for 50 games for violation of the Joint Drug Agreement. I have decided to accept this suspension and not exercise my rights under the Basic Agreement to appeal. From November, 2011 to January, 2012, I was seriously ill with a gastrointestinal infection, helicobacter pylori, which went undiagnosed for over a month.

He added:

By the time I was properly diagnosed and treated, I had lost 40 pounds. Just weeks before I was to report to spring training in 2012, I was unsure whether I would be physically able to play. Faced with this situation, I made an error in judgment that I deeply regret, and I accept full responsibility for that error. I should have handled the situation differently, and my illness was no excuse"

Nelson then continued, stating how grateful he is for his loved ones' support:

"I am thankful for the unwavering support of my family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time. I look forward to regaining the trust and respect of the Rangers organization, my teammates, and the great Rangers' fans, and I am grateful for the opportunity to rejoin the team for the playoffs."

"Nelson Cruz of the Rangers has been issued a 50 game suspension for his involvement in PEDs." - Baseball Quotes

Back in 2013, the player was playing with the Texas Rangers (2006–2013), when the Biogenesis scandal came to the limelight.

Former Biogenesis founder addressed Nelson Cruz with a code name

2011 World Series Game 3 - Texas Rangers v St Louis Cardinals

In a shocking divulgence, former Biogenesis founder Anthony Bosch addressed Padres designated hitter and right fielder Nelson Cruz with the code name- "Mohamad" in a customer sheet.

As per reports, Nelson bought products worth $4,000 from Anthony. Additionally, he is one of 13 players who have been banned for their connection to the anti-aging clinic.

"Nelson Cruz agrees to 1-yr, $8M deal w/ Orioles. OF/DH served 50-game suspension in 2013 for Biogenesis scandal. (via ESPN & media reports)." - SportsCenter

After serving the MLB suspension, Nelson became a free agent after the 2013 season and finally agreed to an $8 million, one-year deal with the Baltimore Orioles on February 24, 2014.

Next, he went on to play with Seattle Mariners (2015–2018), Minnesota Twins (2019–2021), Tampa Bay Rays (2021), and Washington Nationals (2022-present)