Romero took an over the counter supplement called 6-OXO that contained a substance called androstenedione, which is on MLB’s blacklist of banned PEDs.

The supplement did not specify androstenedione on the label nor in the ingredients and Romero continues to plead his case about not knowing about the substance.

Despite all of the trouble, the Phillies need Romero back in the line-up as pitching has become a trouble area for the 2008 World Champions. The Phillies will need to make a roster move to add Romero back into the dugout.

Todd Zolecki of MLB.com quoted Romero on his return.

“Overall right now, I’d give myself a ‘B,’” Romero said, asked about how he is throwing in the Minors. “When I start getting guys out in the big leagues, then I will tell you what grade I give myself. I’m good. I’m healthy. I’m ready to go.”

Suspended Philadelphia Phillies reliever J.C. Romero has filed suit against a nutritional supplement manufacturer alleging an unlisted ingredient in one of its products caused him to test positive for a substance banned by Major League Baseball, according to ESPN.com.

Romero, was suspended for the first 50 games of the 2009 season, after he tested positive for androstenedione, a banned substance. The supplement called 6-OXO did not specify androstenedione on the label nor in the ingredients and Romero continues to plead his case about not knowing about the substance.

Not only that, clerks at the stores where he purchased the supplements told him that 6-OXO would not cause a positive test for a banned substance.

Lesson learned; never believe the idiots behind the counter. Androstenedione is a natural substance that is found in humans and plant pollens, but has been on MLB blacklist since 2006 because of saftley concerns.

The over-the-counter supplement, colloquially known as “andro,” gained public attention in 1998 when Mark McGwire, then with the St. Louis Cardinals, disclosed he used the substance during his pursuit of the single-season home run record that year. McGwire ultimately hit 70 homers, eclipsing the record of 61 set by the Yankees’ Roger Maris in 1961.

Romero’s suit was filed in Camden, NJ on Monday.  Romero wants compensation for the money and time he has missed because of the positive test.