Diamondbacks make Max Kepler roster decision after 80-game suspension

The Arizona Diamondbacks are adding a new outfielder to the mix. 

According to a report from Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic, the D-Backs have added Max Kepler to their active roster. 

In a corresponding move, utility man Tim Tawa was optioned to Triple-A. 

Kepler signed a one-year deal with Arizona amid his 80-game suspension for testing positive for Epitrenbolone, a performance-enhancing substance, in January. 

Kepler, 33, has played 11 seasons in the Majors, including the first 10 with the Minnesota Twins.

The left-handed hitter managed 18 home runs and a .691 OPS in 127 games with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2025. 

"Kepler will presumably step into left field and see time at designated hitter — at least against right-handed pitching," Steve Adams of MLB Trade Rumors wrote.

"(He’s had significant platoon splits throughout his career.) Kepler has long been regarded as a plus defender in right field and has played some center in the past, but he hasn’t manned center with any regularity since the 2019 season in Minnesota." 

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Before his activation to Arizona's roster, he played 10 games (six at Triple-A) in the minors. He hit .333 with a pair of homers. 

Because Kepler was suspended for PEDs, he will be ineligible for the postseason if the D-Backs make it that far. 

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