Billy Eppler, former general manager of the Los Angeles Angels, has been banned for the 2024 season after violating the Injured List rules of Major League Baseball. Eppler fabricated injuries while general manager of the New York Mets, leading to an investigation.
He stepped down as general manager from New York in October 2023 once news of the investigation came about. Eppler spent two seasons as the general manager of the Mets, helping the team reach the playoffs in 2022.
The team missed the postseason in 2023 despite high payroll numbers. It was a complete flop by New York, headed by the decisions of Eppler to sign multiple aging star pitchers.
With the news out now that he has been officially suspended through the conclusion of the 2024 World Series, Eppler provided a statement accepting the suspension.
“I cooperated fully and transparently with MLB's investigation, and I accept their decision.”
Within the official announcement of the suspension for Eppler, no other members of the Mets personnel were mentioned. It seems that Eppler acted alone on this, and will now face the punishment handed down.
Eppler was formerly the general manager of the Angels from 2015-2020. He played an important role in helping the team land two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, providing a comfortable environment for Ohtani once he came over from Japan.
This is a very serious offense, and Eppler's reputation will likely take a hit. He was once seen as one of the better front-office personnel in baseball but now may have a tough time finding a job going forward.
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