In a shocking turn of events, former New York Mets general manager Billy Eppler has been handed a suspension through the 2024 World Series by baseball commissioner Rob Manfred. The announcement came after an investigation concluded that Eppler had directed the team to fabricate injuries in order to create open roster spots.

Notably, no Mets medical or athletic training personnel were mentioned in the statement released by Major League Baseball. Instead, it was Eppler who was deemed responsible for orchestrating the deliberate fabrication of injuries and submitting documentation to secure multiple improper injured list placements during the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

Eppler, 48, served as the Mets general manager from November 2021 until his resignation on October 5, 2023. His departure came merely three days after owner Steven Cohen appointed David Stearns as the president of baseball operations. Eppler stepped down on the same day that the MLB's investigation became public.

Interestingly, the public findings by Commissioner Manfred did not implicate Mets owner Steve Cohen or former manager Buck Showalter in the scandal. The Mets released a statement acknowledging Major League Baseball's investigation, noting that with Eppler's resignation and Stearns now leading the Baseball Operations team, they consider the matter closed and will refrain from further comment.

This unprecedented suspension not only tarnishes Eppler's reputation but also raises questions about the integrity of the New York Mets organization. The severity of the penalty highlights the seriousness with which Major League Baseball views the offense of fabricating injuries, a practice that undermines the fairness of the game.

As the Mets seek to move forward from this scandal, the suspension of Billy Eppler will undoubtedly serve as a reminder of the consequences for those who engage in deceptive practices within the sport. The 2024 World Series will mark the end of Eppler's suspension period, leaving lingering questions about his future in the world of baseball.