Denver — Braves top prospect Jordan Schafer's career just hit a troubling detour: drug suspension.
The 21-year-old center fielder was suspended 50 games for the use of human growth hormone (HGH) in violation of the minor-league drug policy.
The suspension was handed down Tuesday by commissioner Bud Selig's office and took effect immediately.
Schafer was 1-for-11 (.091) in four games for Class AA Mississippi, after impressing the Braves and manager Bobby Cox with a strong showing during spring training with the major league club.
"We are extremely disappointed that Jordan has violated the Commissioner's Performance Enhancing Drug Policy," Braves general manager Frank Wren said in a two-paragraph prepared statement. "We are supportive of the program and will continue to educate all of our players."