Kepler and MLB have reached a settlement that will allow him to serve the suspension even if he is not on an MLB roster to start the season, reports ESPN’s Alden González. If he remains a free agent, last year’s playing time with Philadelphia would count as one point toward the suspension. He is still ineligible for the 2026 playoffs.
Kepler, 33 in February, just completed his first season with the Twins. After years in Minnesota, Kepler became a free agent after the 2024 campaign, signing a one-year, $10 million deal with the Phillies.
His year in Philadelphia was not particularly pleasant. He hit 18 home runs, but slashed .216/.300/.391 for a wRC+ of 90. Along the way, he expressed some frustration at being protected from lefties, saying he thought he was signed as an everyday player.
When he returned to free agency this winter, he wouldn’t have much earning potential after that down year. On the other hand, the outfield market is quite weak, barring Kyle Tucker And Cody Bellinger are the top ones. Besides these two, Kepler was one of the better options Harrison Bader And Mike Yastrzemskithe latter of whom signed with Atlanta.
This development will of course change that. Kepler is now not only a 33-year-old who has had a bad year, but also someone who won’t even be available for the first half of the season. Even if he hangs in there, serves his suspension and plays well in the second half, he won’t be eligible for the 2026 postseason.
That will obviously affect Kepler’s earning capacity. For clubs looking for on-field help, especially those who don’t want to pay for guys like Tucker or Bellinger, this could perhaps increase their desire to sign someone like Bader. Miguel Andujar, Austin Hays, Mike Tauchman or other available outfielders.
Photos courtesy of Kyle Ross, Brad Rempel, Imagn Images
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