Said Soto in a statement released to the media: “While I fully acknowledge my inappropriate behavior, I want to assure my fans and my family that this was an isolated incident. I do not say this to minimize or deflect from my conduct and I fully understand the ramifications of my actions. I have and will accept any and all consequences.”

So far in 2009, Soto has been in a bit of a sophomore slump. He’s hitting just .227 with six homers and 21 RBIs. That said, he’s starting to hit better in June. In fact, he has five of his six homers in this month.

It’s unknown whether the 26-year-old native of San Juan, Puerto Rico will face any disciplinary action from Major League Baseball and commissioner Bud Selig.

Geovany Soto Marijuana Positive Test (Image: Zuma Press)

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Geovany Soto Tested Positive for Marijuana

Ichiro Suzuki is back following a bout with a bleeding ulcer (Image: Newscom)

Although Ichiro didn’t want to go onto the disabled list, the Mariners made the move to make sure that he could get in as much rest as possible and to treat the bleeding ulcer carefully. He had spent a large amount of time with the Japanese baseball team as they played in the 2009 World Baseball Classic. In the deciding game, Ichiro had the game-winning hit to lead Japan to their second consecutive WBC championship.

Playing against the Los Angeles Angels, Ichiro returned to the lineup playing in right field and batting leadoff. Last season, the 35-year-old hit .310 with 103 runs and 213 hits.

Without Ichiro the Mariners have started the season 6-2.

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Ichiro Returns Following Bleeding Ulcer

5. Venezuela
With a victory over the U.S. under their belts already, Venezuela has the ability to beat any team in the tournament. However, their talent isn’t as deep as the talent on other rosters.

4. United States
I might be showing my American pride by putting them up this high. They’ve lost two straight games and they don’t look like a serious championship contender at this point.

3. Cuba
Cuba always has a tough team in international play. They are isolated on an island and get to play with each other all year long. There is no team with more familiarity than Cuba.

2. Japan
The reigning champions have a legit chance to win it again. Although they already have a loss during tournament play, Japan definitely has a chance to go all the way.

1. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is undefeated and after demolishing the United States on Saturday night by a final score of 11-1, this island looks like the favorite to win the 2009 World Baseball Classic.

Post from: EveryJoe

Favorites To Win The 2009 World Baseball Classic

The World Baseball Classic is about to start and I can’t find a person who cares. Why is that? I realize that the event is somewhat contrived but it features a good format that should create a lot of exciting baseball.

Everyone loves the Olympics and this is basically the Olympics for baseball. Actually, the Olympics has baseball but people are right not to care because very few quality players take part. In the 2009 World Baseball Classic, there are many stars out there who will be trying to bring a championship to their country.

If you aren’t excited, try to get excited – by any means possible. We all hate Bud Selig but this is one thing he did right. Hopefully, over time, the WBC takes off and is a baseball event everyone looks forward to every three years.

Who do I think is going to win? I like the Dominican team. If they can get decent pitching, their hitting should be able to carry the team to the championship.

Tune in and start caring.

Thanks.

Post from: EveryJoe

Why Don’t You Care About the World Baseball Classic?