Suspended Kepler Signed
Arizona Diamondbacks sign veteran Max Kepler for power amid PED ban and fan questions.
The Arizona Diamondbacks signed veteran outfielder Max Kepler to a one-year major league contract while he serves an 80-game suspension for testing positive for the performance-enhancing drug Epitrenbolone. Kepler remains on the restricted list and will not be able to report to Arizona until June 25, when the suspension ends, with no contract terms publicly released. Because of the failed drug test, he would be ineligible for postseason play if the Diamondbacks qualify. Arizona is making the move to address inconsistent outfield production and a need for left-handed power behind Corbin Carroll, amid roster moves including the designation of Alek Thomas for assignment, the optioning of Tim Tawa, and injuries to Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Jordan Lawlar. Reports note the club is tied with the Chicago Cubs for the final NL wild-card spot, and some MLB fans questioned the signing given Kepler’s down 2025 production with the Philadelphia Phillies. Other coverage suggests Arizona could use him primarily at left field and as a designated hitter against right-handed pitching while he ramps up before his June return.
Key Points
MLB said Kepler’s January positive for Epitrenbolone was tied to the metabolite of Trenbolone found in certain bodybuilding-store products that has also been used in cattle-growth products; MLB noted Kepler was the first player suspended for that substance since the public penalty details began in 2005.
Kepler’s recent availability and performance have also been shaped by injuries: he was slowed in 2024 by left patellar tendinitis and had core surgery after the season to repair a sports hernia.
Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen said on MLB Network Radio (Sirius XM) that Arizona’s goal was to add left-handed power “behind Corbin Carroll,” linking the Kepler signing directly to the team’s lineup construction plan.
While Kepler remains on the restricted list, Arizona will keep him from counting against its 40-man roster until his suspension ends on June 25.
One reason some fans have questioned the fit is that Kepler’s splits last season with Philadelphia weren’t strongly platoon-friendly: he hit .217/.276/.348 (71 wRC+) in 76 plate appearances vs. left-handed pitching and .216/.305/.399 (93 wRC+) in 398 plate appearances vs. right-handers.
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