Pitcher Jenrry Mejia becomes the first player to be permanently banned from baseball for a third failed drug test

Pitcher Jenrry Mejia becomes the first player to be permanently banned from baseball for a third failed drug test. In the midst of serving a 162-game suspension for a second offense dating back to the previous July, Mejia again tests positive for a banned steroid, prompting the unprecedented punishment under Major League Baseball’s joint drug treatment and prevention program. He will still be eligible to apply for reinstatement after two years – if he trespasses no more.

Chicago Cubs Sign John Lester 6 years $155M

Chicago Cubs Sign John Lester 6 years $155M

One day after their south side rivals, it’s the Cubs’ turn to steal the headlines at the winter meetings in San Diego, CA. First, they sign highly sought-after free agent P Jon Lester to a six-year deal worth $155 million, and then they acquire C Miguel Montero from Arizona for minor leaguers Jeferson Mejia and Zack Godley.