Not Leo Nunez? Star Pitcher Sent Home After ID Issue

MIAMI (AP) -- Two people familiar with the immigration status of Florida Marlins closer Leo Nunez say the pitcher has been playing under an assumed name, and the issue has prompted him to return to his native Dominican Republic.

The people, who said the Marlins have been aware of the issue for several months, spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Thursday because Dominican and team officials haven't made any public comment on the case.

One of the people said Nunez's real name is Juan Carlos Oviedo and he's 29, a year older than listed in the Marlins' media guide.

The Marlins placed Nunez on Major League Baseball's restricted list, and he isn't expected to pitch in the final week of the season.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)