DENVER (AP) – The Colorado Rockies have released minor league first baseman Mike Jacobs after he received a 50-game suspension from Major League Baseball for taking a performance-enhancing substance. In a statement, Jacobs said he took human growth hormone to overcome knee and back ailments. He apologized and said he hopes to continue his playing career after serving his suspension. The 30-year-old Jacobs has played six major league seasons, collecting 100 homers and 310 RBIs with a career .254 batting average with the Mets, Marlins and Royals. He was leading the Rockies’ Triple-A team in Colorado Springs with 23 homers and 97 RBIs while hitting .298 over 117 games with the Sky Sox. The Rockies released a statement expressing their disappointment in Jacobs and saying PEDs must be eradicated from the sport.