Phillies Outfielder Johan Rojas Suspended 80 Games for PED Use

Rojas failed appeal after testing positive for banned anabolic steroid Boldenone

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:41pm

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Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Johan Rojas has been suspended 80 games without pay by Major League Baseball after testing positive for the banned performance-enhancing drug Boldenone. The 25-year-old center fielder attempted to appeal the result but was unsuccessful, and his suspension will begin at the start of the 2026 season.

Why it matters

Rojas' suspension is a significant blow to the Phillies, who were counting on the young outfielder to contribute this season after he struggled offensively in 2025. The use of PEDs in professional sports remains a major issue, with Rojas' suspension coming just weeks after Atlanta Braves' Jurickson Profar received a 162-game ban for his second PED offense.

The details

Rojas tested positive for the anabolic steroid Boldenone ahead of the 2026 season. He was initially removed from the Dominican Republic's roster for the World Baseball Classic earlier this month after the failed test was revealed. Rojas reportedly attempted to appeal the suspension but was unsuccessful, and he will now miss the first 80 games of the upcoming season.

  • Rojas' suspension will begin at the start of the 2026 MLB season.
  • Rojas was removed from the Dominican Republic's World Baseball Classic roster in early March 2026 after the failed test was revealed.

The players

Johan Rojas

A 25-year-old outfielder who has spent his entire professional career with the Philadelphia Phillies organization, making his MLB debut in 2023.

Jurickson Profar

An Atlanta Braves designated hitter who was suspended 162 games earlier this month for his second PED offense.

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What’s next

Once Rojas' suspension is complete, he will likely have to work his way back into the Phillies' starting lineup after struggling offensively in 2025.

The takeaway

Rojas' suspension highlights the ongoing challenge of PED use in professional sports, and the significant consequences players face when they are caught violating league policies. It also raises questions about the Phillies' plans for their young outfielder as he looks to regain his footing in the majors.