Drug Use among Former Major League Baseball Players
Dr. Michael P. Mahoney, Dr. Ted Tedrick, Dr. Michael W. Jackson, Dr. Kara Zografos

Abstract
Substance abuse is prevalent in society, and with professional sport. Policies and educational efforts often focus on prolonging careers of athletes, yet few extend to the post-career phase. This study investigated drug use during and after careers ended among 16 retired former Major League Baseball (MLB) players. Circumstances of use, injuries as a cause, and effects on careers, family, and friends during and post-career were assessed. Differences between pitchers and position players were examined. Qualitative data were obtained through personal interviews. Themes included increasing use during careers, with a slight decrease near the end, and negative impacts on families. Many suggested careers were affected (positive and negative) through use, and effects were more pronounced for pitchers.

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