Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Max Kepler has been suspended 80 games by Major League Baseball after testing positive for Epitrenbolone, a banned performance-enhancing drug, the league announced Friday. The news casts a shadow over Kepler’s free agency and raises questions about the ongoing battle against PEDs in baseball.
Suspension Details and Implications
Under MLB’s Joint Drug Agreement, the 80-game suspension applies to both regular season and postseason games that Kepler would have been eligible to play. He is permitted to serve the suspension even if he remains unsigned, and will not receive pay during the suspension should he sign with a team. Kepler will also be ineligible for the 2026 postseason.
What does this suspension mean for Kepler’s career? The suspension significantly impacts Kepler’s market value and potential opportunities, especially given his recent performance.
Recent Performance and Career Overview
The 33-year-old (turning 33 next month) posted a .216/.300/.391 batting line with 18 home runs during the 2025 season with the Phillies. He hit .216/.305/.399 against right-handed pitchers. Over the last four years, Kepler’s offensive production, measured by OPS+, has been below average. While a solid defender in the outfield corners, that alone isn’t enough to offset offensive struggles. Prior to the suspension, he was projected to likely secure a one-year contract with limited control.
A Look Back at Kepler’s MLB Journey
Throughout 11 seasons in Major League Baseball, including his first ten with the Minnesota Twins, Kepler has maintained a .235/.316/.425 batting average, launching 179 home runs and accumulating 20.6 WAR (Wins Above Replacement). His most productive year came in 2019, when he belted 36 home runs.
2019 was a record-breaking year for home runs across MLB.
Where Does Kepler Stand Among Free Agents?
Kepler was not ranked among the top 50 MLB free agents this offseason.
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