MLB Drug Testing Results Released: Significant Drop in ADHD Exemptions, Extremely Low Violation Rate Among 40-Man Roster Players

Jurickson Profar

The MLB and the players' union announced the 2025 season's drug testing report today (December 2). According to the report, just 2 players on the 40-man rosters tested positive. This data covers the entire period from last season’s offseason through the conclusion of this year’s playoffs, demonstrating that the league maintains an exceptionally low rate of violations in drug control.

The two players who tested positive were both penalized for using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). One is outfielder Jurickson Profar of the Atlanta Braves, who was suspended for 80 games starting March 31 this year; the other is pitcher Jose Alvarado of the Philadelphia Phillies, who also received an 80-game suspension on May 18. Both suspensions were fully served during the season.

This testing initiative was extensive, with a total of 11,700 tests conducted, including 9,400 urine tests and 2,300 blood tests. The urine screenings covered a wide range of banned substances such as performance enhancers, stimulants, DHEA hormone products, diuretics, masking agents, and narcotic painkillers to ensure fair competition.

Notably, the number of players granted Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE) for legally using medications containing banned substances to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has steadily declined. This year, 54 players received exemptions, seven fewer than last year. Compared to the peak of 119 players in 2013, this represents a reduction of more than half, indicating the league’s increasingly stringent review of medical exemptions.

Combining data from the past two testing cycles, MLB has conducted over 23,000 tests, with only 4 players on the 40-man rosters testing positive. This statistic highlights that the vast majority of MLB players strictly comply with drug regulations and are committed to preserving the integrity of professional sports.