BREAKING NEWS: The General Manager of Tampa Bay Rays, Erik Neander, just suspended Head Coach Kevin Cash from all team activities after he tested positive for a banned substance under…….. view more

BREAKING NEWS: Tampa Bay Rays GM Erik Neander Suspends Manager Kevin Cash Following Positive Test for Banned Substance

St. Petersburg, FL — July 4, 2025
In a stunning development just hours before the Tampa Bay Rays were set to open a critical holiday weekend series, General Manager Erik Neander has announced the immediate suspension of Manager Kevin Cash from all team activities after he reportedly tested positive for a banned substance under Major League Baseball’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.

According to team sources, the test revealed the presence of a Class II stimulant, typically prohibited without a therapeutic use exemption (TUE). The nature of the substance has not yet been disclosed publicly pending further investigation by league officials.

“This is an unfortunate and unexpected situation,” said Neander during a hastily arranged press briefing Friday morning at Tropicana Field. “As an organization, we are fully cooperating with MLB protocols and are placing Kevin on immediate leave from all baseball-related duties.”

⚠️ A Sudden Shake-Up

The suspension marks a major disruption for the Rays, who have relied on Cash’s steady leadership since 2015. Known for his data-driven managerial style and sharp in-game decision-making, Cash has guided Tampa Bay through playoff runs, two AL pennants, and an American League Manager of the Year award.

Cash, 47, was not present at the ballpark Friday and has yet to issue a public statement.

Sources close to the team said the positive test came as a surprise, with no prior indication of any issues. League-mandated testing, while primarily focused on players, also includes managers and other personnel as part of annual health and integrity checks.

⚾ Interim Plans

Bench coach Chad Mottola will assume managerial duties on an interim basis. Mottola, a former hitting coach, has been with the Rays since 2017 and is expected to lead the team while the league completes its investigation.

“We’re obviously surprised, but we’ll stay focused,” said Mottola. “This group has been through a lot and knows how to adapt. Kevin has our support until all the facts are known.”

📜 What Happens Next

Under MLB’s policy, Cash has the right to request a B-sample test to confirm the result. If upheld, the suspension could last anywhere from 30 to 90 days, depending on the classification of the substance and whether it is a first offense.

MLB officials have not yet commented publicly but are expected to issue a formal statement in the coming days.

The Rays are currently in the thick of the AL Wild Card race, making the timing of the suspension even more significant.

🧠 League & Public Reaction

News of the suspension has already ignited debate among fans, analysts, and former players. While many are urging patience and due process, others have called into question MLB’s handling of substance-related cases involving non-players.

“We need transparency in how these matters are handled, whether it’s a player or a coach,” said former MLB manager Buck Showalter in an interview on MLB Network. “And above all, fairness.”

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as new information becomes available from the team and the league.

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