Jeter, Yankees Surprised By Cabrera's PED Suspension

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - Derek Jeter spent five seasons as Melky Cabrera's teammate.  Upon hearing the news of Cabrera's 50-game suspension, Jeter reacted with surprise in front of a large gathering of reporters at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday.

"I'm surprised, it goes with out saying.  I feel bad.  I feel bad to even be sitting here talking about it," Jeter mentioned to reporters.

"He was fun to be around.  I enjoyed playing with him, I enjoyed watching him get better throughout the years. Yeah, it's too bad," Jeter said.

Cabrera and Robinson Cano were very close friends from their time coming up through the minor leagues and before Cabrera was traded to the Atlanta Braves in 2010.

Cano spoke of his sadness upon hearing of his friend's suspension in front of the media at Yankee Stadium.

"He was having a great year.  He's my friend, I'm going to be there for him.  (It's) a sad day.  I was 100 percent surprised," Cano revealed.

Alex Rodriguez offered his support to Cabrera.  Rodriguez admitted to using banned substances from 2001 to 2003, while he was a member of the Texas Rangers.

"I'm sure he's sad and confused. I think he's a young man and has a great opportunity -- and challenge -- to turn a negative into a positive, and you hope he does that," Rodriguez said.

A-Rod continued, "I'm a believer, I'm a friend. And at times like this, I would definitely not turn my back,  and I'm 100 percent here to support him."

Yankees' manager Joe Girardi reacted with disappointment upon hearing of Cabrera's suspension.

"It's disappointing.  Obviously, Melky means a lot to all of us," Girardi explained.  "Anger doesn't come to my mind.  Disappointment comes to my mind.  Melky meant a lot to us.  It's unfortunate."

Earlier today, the MLB Commissioner's Office announced Cabrera tested positive for testosterone and will be suspended 50 games without pay.  He is an upcoming free agent.

Can Cabrera restore his reputation in 2013?  Or will this suspension taint his career? Sound off below...

In:
• MLB
• Alex Rodriguez
• Atlanta Braves
• New York Yankees