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**ESPN REPORT: MLB SUSPENDS THREE RED SOX PLAYERS FOR VIOLATION OF LEAGUE CONDUCT POLICY**
*May 21, 2025 — Boston, MA*
Major League Baseball announced late Tuesday the suspension of three Boston Red Sox players following an internal investigation into conduct violations in the team’s clubhouse. While specifics remain under wraps, sources confirm the players were found in breach of the league’s personal conduct policy, citing substance use and what MLB referred to as “behavior inconsistent with professional standards during team activities.”
The players—whose names are being withheld pending further disciplinary review—have each been suspended for 10 games without pay. The Red Sox organization confirmed the suspensions in a brief statement, adding they are cooperating fully with the league and “take all matters regarding team culture and professionalism seriously.”
According to sources close to the team, the incident in question occurred following a home game earlier this month. Security footage and eyewitness accounts revealed the players allegedly used marijuana in the locker room, a violation of both team rules and MLB workplace regulations. Although marijuana is legal for recreational use in Massachusetts, MLB policy still prohibits use during team activities or in team facilities.
However, it was the reportedly “intimate behavior” between two players that drew additional scrutiny from league officials—not for the nature of the relationship itself, but for the setting in which it occurred. “The league’s position is clear: personal conduct that disrupts team dynamics or violates the sanctity of professional spaces is subject to review, regardless of the context,” said one MLB spokesperson.
Civil rights groups have already weighed in, cautioning MLB not to conflate sexual orientation with conduct violations. “It’s vital the league distinguish between behavior that disrupts operations and any perception that non-heteronormative relationships are inherently problematic,” said a statement from the LGBTQ+ Sports Equality Network. “All athletes deserve a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.”
The Red Sox, currently in a tight race for the AL East title, will be forced to reshuffle their roster ahead of a pivotal series against the Yankees. Interim manager Kevin Riches said in a press conference, “It’s disappointing anytime players make choices that distract from the game. We’ll regroup and move forward.”
Teammates have remained mostly quiet on the matter, though one veteran player, speaking anonymously, emphasized that “everyone makes mistakes,” adding that the clubhouse remains “focused on baseball and supporting each other.”
As MLB continues its investigation, many in the sports world are watching closely to see how the league balances its standards of conduct with the evolving landscape of social expectations. “This is about professionalism,” said ESPN analyst David Santiago. “But the league also has to ensure it’s not sending the wrong message about inclusion in sports.”
The suspended players are eligible to return in early June. The Red Sox have not yet announced who will be called up to fill the roster spots.
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