Orioles Minor League catcher Brian Ward has been suspended 50 games for a second violation of the Minor League Drug Prevention and Treatment Program, the Office of the Commissioner announced on Wednesday.

It was the second violation for a drug of abuse for Ward, who will begin serving his suspension effective immediately. Ward, currently on the Class A Aberdeen IronBirds roster, was non-drafted free agent signed by the Orioles in June 2009.

The 26-year-old backstop hit .254 with seven home runs, 32 RBIs and nine stolen bases for Class A Frederick in 2011.