Baltimore, MD — July 4, 2025
In a shocking development that has rocked the Baltimore Orioles organization, General Manager Mike Elias has announced the immediate suspension of Head Coach Tony Mansolino from all team activities following a positive test for a banned substance, league sources confirmed Friday afternoon.
The test, administered under Major League Baseball’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program, flagged a Class II stimulant, the identity of which has not yet been publicly disclosed. According to team officials, the substance was detected during a routine in-house compliance screening last week.
“This is a deeply disappointing situation for the organization,” Elias said in a brief press conference held at Camden Yards. “We hold everyone in our clubhouse to the highest standards of professionalism and accountability. At this time, Tony Mansolino has been suspended indefinitely from all team-related duties pending further investigation.”
Mansolino, who took over as interim manager in May following the dismissal of Brandon Hyde, had been credited with stabilizing the team’s clubhouse and showing signs of leadership during a rocky season. Under his short tenure, the Orioles had won 12 of their last 20 games and were inching back into Wild Card contention.
The suspension comes as a major blow just weeks ahead of the trade deadline, as the Orioles had been evaluating whether to retain Mansolino in a permanent managerial role.
“We were just beginning to find our rhythm,” said veteran outfielder Cedric Mullins. “This news hit hard. We respect the league’s policies, but Tony was someone we believed in.”
MLB has not yet issued a formal disciplinary action, as the case is still under review. Sources close to the league office suggest a 30-to-60 day suspension is possible depending on Mansolino’s prior record and cooperation with the investigation. The MLB Coaches Association released a short statement emphasizing the importance of due process and confidentiality.
“We are aware of the reports regarding Coach Mansolino and are monitoring the situation closely. We urge patience as all facts come to light,” the statement read.
Bench coach Fredi González is expected to assume interim managerial responsibilities in the short term, according to internal sources. The Orioles are scheduled to begin a four-game home stand against the Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday night.
This developing story leaves the team — and fans — grappling with yet another twist in a season already marked by managerial turnover and playoff uncertainty.
This story is developing. More updates to follow as new information becomes available.
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