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Former MLB pitcher Esteban Loaiza was arrested in San Diego on Friday on three felony counts that allege possession of over 20 kilograms of cocaine or heroin, as well as possession with the intent to sell and transportation of narcotics for the intent to sell. His bail was set at $200,000.
This is a new one: Esteban Loaiza, drug kingpin.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 12, 2018
The second-winningest pitcher from Mexico in MLB history was arrested Friday with 20 kilos of heroin or cocaine, according to San Diego police records. He'll be in court Wednesday to face felony drug charges. Details are in pics. pic.twitter.com/312pf21Q4F
Full details of the arrest have not been made available to the public. It’s unclear precisely how much narcotics Loaiza was alleged to be found with, but under statute 11370.4 in the state penal code it means he was carrying more than 20 kilograms (44 pounds), but less than 40 kilograms (88 pounds).
The possession charge carries a minimum prison term of 15 years, with the intent to sell and transportation charges potentially carrying additional sentences. At this time a court date has not been established for Loaiza.
Loaiza retired from baseball in 2008, but has remained close to the White Sox organization. He attended a fan fest event in late-January, according to his Instagram account.
No public statement has been made. Loaiza’s last posts on social media were from Sunday, Feb. 4 — which showed him in his car on a visit to his hometown of Tijuana, Mexico.