Grimsley receives 50-game suspension

NEW YORK -- Embattled pitcher Jason Grimsley was suspended 50 games by Major League Baseball on Monday, less than a week after federal agents raided his home during an investigation into performance-enhancing drugs.

Commissioner Bud Selig's office suspended Grimsley for violating baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program, based on his statements to authorities regarding human growth hormone.

"I think he earned it," Arizona Diamondbacks managing general partner Ken Kendrick said. "I think it sends a message and an appropriate message."

"He violated the agreement. Obviously MLB feels that he did. That's Bud's decision and I think it's the right decision and I applaud him for it," he said.

The Diamondbacks released the reliever last Wednesday -- they don't intend to pay him, either -- and his agent said he did not expect Grimsley to pitch again. If Grimsley returns, the penalty would take effect when he's placed on a 40-man roster.

"Nothing's changed," agent Joe Bick said Monday.

Last Tuesday, 13 agents searched Grimsley's Arizona home following his admission he had used HGH, steroids and amphetamines.

-- AP