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MLB·TRANSACTION·June 8, 2026 08:01 AM ET

Diamondbacks Sign Suspended Outfielder Max Kepler, Who Must Miss 80 Games

Arizona adds Kepler despite an 80-game PED ban.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jun 81 min read
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The Arizona Diamondbacks sign OF Max Kepler, who was popped for PEDs in January and remains on the MLB restricted list. Via @BNightengale on X

What happened: The Arizona Diamondbacks have signed outfielder Max Kepler to a one-year deal, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale. Kepler was popped for a performance-enhancing drug violation in January and remains on MLB's restricted list. He must still serve an 80-game suspension and is ineligible for the postseason.

Why it matters: The deal commits a roster spot to a player who cannot contribute until his suspension is served and who is barred from any playoff push this year. It signals Arizona is betting on Kepler's bat for the back half of the season and beyond, wagering that his eventual return outweighs the near-term roster cost.

What to watch: Watch for clarity on exactly when Kepler's 80-game suspension is satisfied and when he becomes eligible to join Arizona's active roster.

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