Max Kepler Discusses 80-Game Suspension for PED Use
Max Kepler, a former outfielder for the Philadelphia Phillies and current player for the Arizona Diamondbacks, faced an 80-game suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug. This announcement came shortly after the Phillies were eliminated from the playoffs by the Dodgers.
Kepler tested positive for epitrenbolone, a metabolite of trenbolone, a steroid commonly associated with bodybuilding. He expressed confusion upon receiving the news and took responsibility for the positive test, despite denying any intentional use of banned substances.
During the investigation period, Kepler considered various options, including retirement, but ultimately accepted a deal from Major League Baseball that allowed him to serve his suspension starting on the first day of the Phillies' season. He returned to the major leagues on June 25 after serving his suspension, but has struggled to find consistent playing time with the Diamondbacks.
