⚾️ Energy Drinks in Baseball/Softball | Can baseball/softball players drink energy drinks? ⚾️

Rule Overview

In MLB, energy drinks (e.g., Red Bull) are allowed but regulated under anti-doping policies. Key limits:

Major League Baseball allows the consumption of energy drinks (such as Red Bull) but is subject to anti-doping rules:

Caffeine: ≤ 500mg per match (≈ 5 cans of Red Bull)

Taurine: no clear limit, but abnormal physiologic markers should be avoided

Game Examples

✅ Legal Consumption:

Shohei Ohtani was photographed drinking a custom-made energy drink in the lounge area (no brand revealed)

Red Sox players using an unlabeled pick-me-up drink provided by the team (in line with MLB sponsorship agreement)

Risk of non-compliance:

Consuming "enhanced" beverages containing ephedrine, such as certain Southeast Asian brands, will trigger a positive drug test

Public promotion of non-affiliate brands (e.g., close-up of Red Bull cans held during a race) may result in fines

Key Restrictions

In-game brand display: prohibiting the active exposure of commercial beverage trademarks (violation of MLB sponsorship exclusivity)

Medical Monitoring: If a player experiences hand tremors/abnormal heart rate due to excessive caffeine, the referee may suspend the player

Junior Softball Differences: NFHS softball rules completely prohibit middle school players from consuming any energy drinks

Pro Tips for Athletes

Smart players opt for Alliance-certified drinks (such as Gatorade) or homemade mixes that are compliant and conflict-free!

Choose wisely: Use MLB Official Partner Drinks or Homemade Energy Drinks and stay safe!

Stay energized, play clean! Refreshment, no worries about competition!