The new policy imposes a maximum 10-day suspension on any player who tests positive for steroids for the first time Ten days for a first positive test, a one-year ban for a fourth offense.
Below was the taken from espn.com:
WAS HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE BANNED?
Theoretically, yes. But realistically, no.
While HGH was added to the list of illegal substances, don’t expect anyone to be suspended for using it anytime soon – because both sides admit there is no test for it yet. A blood test is being developed, but this agreement allows only urine testing.
Manfred said that when a “validated urine test is available, we will use that test.” But for now, Human Growth Hormone still falls into the category of undetectable substances – even though it’s technically banned.
DOES THE POLICY BAN COCAINE OR MARIJUANA?
They were already covered. Baseball doesn’t test for cocaine or marijuana. But if a player is convicted of possessing those, or other, recreational drugs, he immediately is placed in a drug-counseling program. And future convictions (a la Steve Howe) can result in suspensions.
WHY WEREN’T AMPHETAMINES BANNED?
The simple answer is: It was discussed, but left on the table. A six-person Health Policy Advisory Committee (made up of two management officials, two union officials, one doctor and one attorney) will continue to study that issue, Manfred said.
But the real truth is: Baseball wasn’t ready to take on The Greenie Problem yet. Despite Victor Conte’s profound concern, there has been no great public pressure on this front – because the public hasn’t associated amphetamines with “cheating” the way it has with steroids. And unlike steroids, there was no player mandate to the union to take action on stimulants.