Twins pitcher Mike Pelfrey revealed Saturday that he has used physician-prescribed Adderall to treat his attention deficit hyperactivity disorder since 2009. The Pioneer Press reported that the 29-year-old right-hander has been careful to take the steps to ensure that his use of the medication is by the book according to Major League Baseball rules.
Yahoo! news reported that Kansas City Royal Miguel Tejada tested positive for the same drug and received a 105-game suspension for unauthorized use of a medication. That’s the third-longest non-lifetime suspension in baseball history for the 39-year-old infielder.
The difference is Tejada’s therapeutic use exemption had expired, while Pelfrey has renewed his exemption as rules demand. Without an attention deficit disorder or ADHD diagnosis, Adderall could give a player additional energy, Pelfrey said.
“When you don’t need it, it acts like a true amphetamine,” he said. “I don’t get all amped up on it. I’m probably more laid back when I’m on it. My thought process is toned down to one thing instead of 20 different things. Without it I’m pretty hyperactive and running around.”
Pelfrey said that he remains in contact with the doctor who diagnosed him while he was pitching for the New York Mets. Pelfrey visited his doctor last month when the Twins were in New York to play the Yankees. Pelfrey said he ended his daily use of Adderall because it caused headaches. He said he now takes the medication on the days he pitches and throws bullpens.
Pelfrey is pitching on a one-year contract with the Twins. He is 4-10 with a 5.26 earned run average in 22 starts this season.
