Major League Baseball (MLB) has suspended former New York Mets general manager Billy Eppler through the 2024 World Series for his improper use of the injured list, including the deliberate fabrication of injuries, according to an announcement made by commissioner Rob Manfred on Friday.

Eppler, who resigned in October amidst MLB's investigation, had spent the past two seasons as the Mets' GM. MLB's investigation revealed that Eppler was solely responsible for the pattern of conduct surrounding the misuse of the injured list and that there was no involvement or knowledge of Mets ownership or superiors.

The Mets released a statement on Friday acknowledging MLB's conclusion, stating, "With Billy Eppler's resignation on October 5, 2023, and with David Stearns leading the baseball operations team, the Mets consider the matter closed and will have no further comment."

Eppler, in a statement to The Athletic, expressed his cooperation with MLB's investigation and acceptance of their decision. His attorney, Jay Reisinger, declined to comment on the matter.

MLB's Department of Investigation conducted interviews with over three dozen individuals, including Eppler and members of the Mets organization, and both parties fully cooperated throughout the process.

The investigation determined that Eppler was involved in the improper use of injured list placements, including the fabrication of injuries, and the submission of documents to secure multiple improper injured list placements during the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

Eppler's surprising resignation coincided with the introduction of David Stearns as the new leader of baseball operations for the Mets. While it was anticipated that Eppler would remain as the Mets' GM under Stearns, no replacement for the GM position has been announced as Stearns has cited the busy winter season as the reason for the delay.

During his tenure as the Mets' GM, Eppler led the team to a successful first year with 101 wins. However, the team struggled in the following season despite a record-setting payroll and failed to make the playoffs. Key players including Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander were traded away around the trade deadline.

Eppler's arrival at the Mets in November 2021 came after the team experienced upheaval and turmoil in its front office, with his two immediate predecessors, Jared Porter and Zack Scott, being fired for off-the-field issues.

MLB's suspension of Eppler serves as a reminder of the league's commitment to maintaining fair play and integrity within the game, with consequences for individuals found to be in violation of the rules.