Righthander Aaron Thompson has been suspended 50 games for violating the league's drug policy. It was not a PED, but a, "drug of abuse," as the policy describes it.
Twins general manager Terry Ryan said the club intends to keep the pitcher, but it should be pointed out that they released minor leaguer Henry Sanchez as soon as his 50-game suspension was completed in 2009.
"`We're going to keep him," Ryan said. ``He's just suspended without pay. When you got 160 kids - and this guy is not a kid - there is no excuse. So we're going to take of it. I'm disappointed in that.'
Thompson, 25, spent last year in the Pirates organization.
Also from Ryan:
Jason Marquis is still in New York attending to a family issue but planned throw in the bullpen today.
Trevor Plouffe (hamstring) could appear in a minor league game on Monday.
