Free agent outfielder Max Kepler suspended 80 games by MLB following positive drug test

By Canadian Press on January 9, 2026.

NEW YORK (AP) — Free agent outfielder Max Kepler was suspended for 80 games on Friday following a positive test for a banned performance-enhancing substance in violation of Major League Baseball’s drug program.

Kepler tested positive for Epitrenbolone, a substance that led to a suspension in 2018 for boxer Manuel Charr.

An 11-year major league veteran, Kepler spent last season with the Philadelphia Phillies. He played his first 10 seasons with the Minnesota Twins.

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AP MLB: https://apnews.com/MLB

The Associated Press