MLB welcomes back four suspended players, here’s what comes next | MLB News
After serving one-year suspensions for violating Major League Baseball’s strict gambling policy, four players have been cleared to return to action. San Diego Padres pitcher Jay Groome, Oakland Athletics reliever Michael Kelly, Philadelphia Phillies infielder José Rodríguez, and Arizona Diamondbacks reliever Andrew Saalfrank have all completed their suspensions handed down under Major League Rule 21.
After yearlong betting bans, these 4 MLB stars are back—what it means for their teams
The Athletics acted quickly, reinstating Kelly and left-hander T.J. McFarland, who had been recovering from injury. To make room on the roster, the team optioned right-handers Elvis Alvarado and Justin Sterner to Triple-A Las Vegas. The Diamondbacks chose a more cautious route, assigning Saalfrank to their Arizona Complex League affiliate.Jay Groome’s future remains uncertain. According to The Athletic, Groome wasn’t tendered a contract by the Padres, making him a free agent. The Phillies, on the other hand, haven’t disclosed any decisions about Rodríguez’s status.
MLB reinstates 4 players (X)
The suspensions stem from violations of Rule 21, MLB’s longstanding policy against gambling. The rule, prominently displayed in every clubhouse, is unambiguous. Betting on games in which a player is not involved triggers a one-year suspension. But the consequences could have been far more severe. Had any of the players wagered on games they physically attended — even if they didn’t play — they would have faced lifetime bans.All four players placed bets under $1,000, and Kelly’s wagers occurred during his time in the minors. Saalfrank and Rodríguez had previously logged major league appearances, which added weight to their infractions.These reinstatements serve as a reminder that MLB continues to take gambling violations seriously — no matter the dollar amount. While these players now have a second chance to rebuild their careers, the shadow of their suspension won’t fade overnight. The league’s message remains clear: “Any player, umpire, or club or league official or employee, who shall bet any sum whatsoever upon any baseball game in connection with which the bettor has no duty to perform shall be declared ineligible for one year.”As sports betting continues to gain legal ground across the country, MLB’s zero-tolerance stance stands firm — upholding the integrity of the game above all else.Also Read: MLB All-Star Game 2025 voting begins: Full guide to dates, rules, and ballot picks
