CHULA VISTA, California (AP) — Former All-Star pitcher Esteban Loaiza, who earned more than $43 million over 14 seasons, denied allegations Wednesday that he is a cocaine dealer.
The former Major League Baseball player appeared in San Diego County Superior Court in Chula Vista, California. The tall, thin ballplayer wearing a khaki jail uniform looked at his father and other family members before entering his not guilty plea.
Prosecutors charged Loaiza, 46, with possession and transportation for sale of more than 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of cocaine, a cocaine base or heroin, and using a false compartment to smuggle drugs.