Diamondbacks Sign Veteran Currently Serving 80-Game Suspension

How desperate are the Arizona Diamondbacks for some depth in the outfield? They've signed veteran Max Kepler, who is still serving an 80-game suspension for PED use.

The Arizona Diamondbacks sign OF Max Kepler, who was popped for PEDs in January and remains on the MLB restricted list. He will still have to miss 80 games and is ineligible for the postseason.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) June 8, 2026

Kepler was banned for using an illegal substance, with the suspension levied back in January when he was a free agent. As the major league season is at the 65-game mark, Kepler will not be able to report to the D-Backs until June 25, when his suspension ends. Until then, he'll remain on the restricted list without pay. He will not count against Arizona's 40-man roster until that point. No details of his contract were announced.

The 33-year-old outfielder hit .216 with 18 homers and 52 RBI with the Philadelphia Phillies last season with a .691 OPS, playing on a one-year, $10 million contract.

D-Backs desperate for outfield depth, sign suspended Max Kepler

Arizona can use the depth in their outfield, an area of the club that has been a mess this season. Former top prospect Alek Thomas was designated for assignment, Tim Tawa was demoted after just 29 games, batting .169. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Jordan Lawlar are on the injured list.

Kepler should get a chance to contribute once he's eligible in a couple of weeks. However, due to the suspension, he will not be eligible for any postseason play this year.

Overall, during an 11-year career in the majors, he has a .235 average with 179 homers and 560 RBIs with a .741 OPS.