The Second Coming of J.C.

It feels like just yesterday when Phillies reliever J.C. Romero got word that he was suspended 50 games for violating the MLB’s performance-enhancing drug policy.

Romero was convinced of negligence in the use of an over-the-counter supplement he bought at a local GNC.

“There wasn't any intention to do any thing to cheat the game of baseball… Apparently the arbitrator saw it in a different way. He accused me of negligence and that's what people have to understand. They didn't accuse me of taking steroids; they accused me of not doing or taking the right procedures before I took the supplement that cost me my positive test,” Romero told Sandy Burgin of MLB.com in the locker room on Tuesday.

Through his whole ordeal, Romero has maintained his innocence.

“I'm content with myself, I can look myself in the mirror and I have a lot of peace in my heart because I know I didn't do anything wrong,” he said.

Romero is ready to put all of the allegations and anger aside now that he served his 50 games. He wants to put his focus back on baseball.

“I think this is the right time. Here in San Diego and then we go to L.A., which has a great team and some good left-handed hitters and then we go to New York. So it's going to be a great road trip for the team. If we can win some series at the same time, it will be good for me if I can contribute in a positive way. That will be great,” he said.

Romero’s passion for baseball, as well as his low ERA, made him a favorite in the city. The700Level.com, a Philly sports blog, created t-shirts with the words “Free J.C.” to bring notice to Romero’s cause. the shirts were popular among fans and players alike.

Romero will be available in the bullpen Wednesday night when the Phillies try to sweep the San Diego Padres.
 

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