CINCINNATI — Third baseman Noelvi Marte, the Cincinnati Reds’ No. 2 prospect, has begun a rehab assignment with Triple-A Louisville as he nears his return from an 80-game suspension.
Marte, who is ranked 28th overall by MLB Pipeline, went 2-for-5 with a first-inning double and a run scored during a 3-2 loss to St. Paul. If he remains on track, Marte will be eligible to return on June 27 when the Reds play in St. Louis.
Reds manager David Bell mentioned that Marte is ready to play a full nine innings, with no restrictions.
Marte, 22, was suspended by MLB on March 8 after testing positive for Boldenone, a banned anabolic steroid. His punishment also includes ineligibility for postseason play.
In his first media appearance since the suspension, Marte admitted he could not explain how the substance appeared in his system.
“It just showed up,” Marte said through translator Jorge Merlos. “I really don’t know how it came about. I will be more cautious about what I consume in the future.”
Marte plans to review his diet and rely on trusted experts when he returns to the Dominican Republic to avoid similar situations.
“It’s a different health system than in the States, so I need to be more careful and ensure everything I put in my body is clean,” he added.
Marte has been cheering on his team from afar as they navigated a rough stretch due to injuries. He mentioned it was tough to watch the Reds struggle without him, especially after losing key players in Spring Training like Matt McLain and TJ Friedl.
“It was hard to see the team fight and not be able to help,” Marte said. “I’m glad they’ve found their groove in recent weeks. I’m eager to be back and offer my support.”
Despite potential backlash from fans who may view his suspension harshly, Marte remains focused on his return.
“I can only control what I can control,” he said. “I will leave everything in God’s hands.”
At Louisville, Marte will primarily play third base, but also sees time at shortstop and second base.
