MLB Reinstates Former GM From His “Lifetime Ban”

He was banned for life just five years ago, but the Commissioner's Office has had a change of heart and has reinstated a former Atlanta Braves General Manager. 

Former Atlanta GM John Coppolella, who was banned for life and placed on #MLBs permanently ineligible list five years ago for his role in illegal international signings, has now been reinstated, as @jaysonst first reported.

— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) January 9, 2023

Jayson Stark of The Athletic reports that John Coppolella, who was placed on baseball's "permanently ineligible list" in 2017 for his role in illegal international signings, is now back in the game's good graces.

Commissioner Rob Manfred permanently banned Coppolella for what he said was  a long period in which the Braves “circumvented international signing rules from 2015 through 2017.”

A statement from the league today said that his removal from the permanently ineligible list was due to "the contrition he expressed and the other steps he took in response to this matter.”

“I deeply regret and accept accountability for my actions," said Coppolella. "I want to again apologize to the Atlanta Braves organization, Major League Baseball, its fans, and especially my family and friends. I am grateful for this decision and will strive each day to honor this opportunity.”

Now 44, he had stepped down as Braves GM immediately upon the conclusion of the 2017 season, and one month later was suspended by Manfred. 

As for the Braves, they've done alright since Coppolella left the team. Alex Anthopoulos took over as GM and has led the team to five straight first-place finishes in the NL East, plus a World Series championship in 2021. 

No word if Coppolella will try to find another job in baseball.

Photo: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports