Multiple sources, like ESPN, report that Nationals lefty Gio Gonzalez did not receive performance-enhancing substances from Anthony Bosch, in Coral Gables, FL. Gio was scratched off the list, but Alex Rodriguez, Nelson Cruz, Melky Cabrera (who was already suspended), Bartolo Colon, and Yasmani Grandal are still on MLB’s suspicious list. There is no official word yet that Gio is cleared, but that may happen soon.  Gio said from the beginning that he never took any performing enhancing substances or even met Bosch.

At the same time, the names of 5 other players were reported in the news to be linked to Bosch, including Padres SS Everth Cabrera, A’s pitcher Jordan Norberto, Astros outfielder Fernando Martinez, Padres reliever Fautino De Los Santos, and Mets prospect Cesar Puello.

The players on list face possible suspensions.  The fact that there is no evidence that Gio did anything wrong is so good for the Nationals that I think Ted Lerner wants to throw a ginormous pizza party for all the Nats fans! I feel that the Yankees, Rangers, Giants, A’s, Padres, Astros, and Mets feel jealous because most players who were on Bosch’s list were stars, and teams want their stars in the lineup for the whole season.

It looks like the Nationals will have their planned starting rotation of Strasburg, Gonzalez, Zimmermann, Haren and Detwiler for Opening Day.  They were probably making plans to promote a bullpen guy to the starting rotation or to make a deal for another starter (possible Kyle Lohse) just in case, but that doesn’t seem likely now.  And that is a good thing!  The Nats have one of the best starting rotations in the league, and their bullpen is awesome too.

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