Angels minor leaguer Nathan Bates gets 50-game drug suspension

NEW YORK -- Los Angeles Angels minor league pitcher Nathan Bates has been suspended for 50 games under baseball's minor league drug program for a second positive test for a drug of abuse.

Bates made one appearance this season at Double-A Mobile of the Southern League. The 24-year-old right-hander threw an inning on April 9 then went on the disabled list.

Bates' suspension was announced Friday.