Phillies Outfielder Suspended 80 Games for PED Violation

Johan Rojas faces lengthy ban after testing positive for banned substance

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:22pm

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Major League Baseball has suspended Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Johan Rojas for 80 games after he tested positive for the performance-enhancing substance Boldenone, a violation of the league's joint drug prevention and treatment program. The 25-year-old Rojas will miss the start of the 2026 regular season as a result of the suspension.

Why it matters

Rojas was expected to be a key contributor for the Phillies this season, so his absence will be a significant blow to the team's outfield depth and lineup. PED violations continue to be an issue in professional sports, raising concerns about the integrity of competition and the health risks to players.

The details

Rojas, who has played his entire 4-year MLB career with the Phillies, will begin serving his suspension when the 2026 regular season starts on March 26. He appeared in 71 games for the Phillies last season, batting .224 with 1 home run, 18 RBIs and 12 stolen bases.

  • Rojas' 80-game suspension will begin on March 26, 2026 when the Phillies open their season.
  • The Phillies' 81st game of the 2026 season is scheduled for June 25 at the Washington Nationals.

The players

Johan Rojas

A 25-year-old center fielder for the Philadelphia Phillies who has been suspended 80 games for violating MLB's joint drug prevention and treatment program.

Philadelphia Phillies

The Major League Baseball team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that employs Johan Rojas.

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What they’re saying

“The Phillies fully support Major League Baseball's Joint Prevention and Treatment Program and are disappointed to hear today's news of Johan's violation.”

— Philadelphia Phillies (yournews.com)

What’s next

The judge in Rojas' case will decide on whether to allow him to be released on bail before the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

This suspension highlights the ongoing challenge of PED use in professional sports and the need for robust drug testing programs to maintain the integrity of competition. The Phillies will have to adjust their roster and lineup to account for Rojas' absence at the start of the season.