The Cuban baseball player Alexei Ramírez Rodríguez tested positive for four banned substances during the VI World Baseball Classic 2026, as reported by the International Testing Agency (ITA) this Wednesday, the organization that oversees the independent anti-doping program of the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC).
The substances detected in the sample of the 44-year-old player are mesterolone, methandienone, oxandrolone, and stanozolol, all classified under section S1.1 (Anabolic Androgenic Steroids) of the 2026 Prohibited List of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
According to the ITA, these substances "are prohibited at all times, both in and out of competition, and are considered non-specified substances," associated with rapid increases in muscle mass, strength, and physical performance.
The sample was collected while Ramírez was representing Cuba in the tournament, held in March of this year.
As a consequence of the finding, the athlete was subjected to a mandatory provisional suspension in accordance with the World Anti-Doping Code and article 7.4.1 of the anti-doping rules of the WBSC.
Ramírez has the right to request the analysis of the B sample. If that analysis confirms the result of the A sample—or if the athlete does not request it—the case will be considered a confirmed violation of anti-doping regulations.
The player will also have the opportunity to present their explanations.
Under the World Anti-Doping Code, a first violation involving unspecified substances typically results in a suspension of four years, although this may be reduced if the athlete can demonstrate a lack of fault or significant negligence.
The simultaneous detection of four anabolic steroids in the same sample is unusual and indicates a systematic use of these substances.
The case has a remarkable historical background. Ramírez, born in Pinar del Río on September 22, 1981, became the oldest player in the history of the World Baseball Classic at 44 years old, surpassing the record held by Roger Clemens, who was 43 in 2006.
He was also one of only three players who participated in both the inaugural edition in 2006 and the one in 2026, alongside Shairon Martis (Netherlands) and Paolo Espino (Panama).
His call-up was part of the Cuban team presented for the VI World Classic, managed by Germán Mesa and made up of 10 players linked to the Major League system.
However, Cuba was unable to progress in the tournament. The team was eliminated in the group stage after losing 2-7 to Canada on March 11, finishing with a record of two wins and two losses in Group A.
In his Major League career (2008-2016), Ramírez primarily played as a shortstop for the Chicago White Sox, with a batting average of .270, 115 home runs, and 590 runs batted in. He won two Silver Slugger awards (2010 and 2014) and was selected for the All-Star Game in 2014.
The ITA, which is handling the entire accusation on behalf of the WBSC, stated that it will not make any further statements while the process is ongoing.
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