Performance enhancing drugs have always been a hot topic in professional sports, especially in Major League Baseball. While the list of prohibited substances and performance enhancers is always being updated, the consequences remain the same and are as follows:

• First positive test result: 80 game suspension
• Second positive test result: 162 game suspension (the entire season, including the postseason)
• Third positive test result: lifetime ban from MLB
• Players who test positive for either their first or second tests are given the option to appeal; if athletes appeal then scientific tests will be conducted to prove the validity of a test. Within that period of time, they are restricted from participation in all baseball activity. If an appeal is granted, the suspension may be reduced by 40 games for the first offense or 80 games for the second offense. There is no appeal for a third offense. All suspensions are without pay, in addition, a suspended player can be replaced on the active roster by another player. If a player is on the disabled list, the suspension is served while on the disabled list. Unless a suspension is reduced on appeal, a suspended player is not allowed to participate in that year’s post-season even if his suspension ends before then.

The latest player to fall victim in the MLB’s in-season random drug screening has been the Pittsburgh Pirates all-star center fielder Starling Marte, who has emerged as the one of the game’s best overall athletes. His suspension will last for 80 games, as this is his first time being caught, and he will also not be eligible for the playoff roster if the Pirates do make it.

While some baseball fans feel the MLB should allow players to use performance enhancing drugs to add to the excitement of the game and allow for more home runs,  senior Jake Emer feels different.

“The MLB needs to tighten up their screening process to eliminate the use PED’s and keep the games integrity in place,” Emer said.