Full Breakdown
MLB Clears Dodgers Team Doctor Neal ElAttrache of Wrongdoing
6/24/2026, 4:13:31 AM
MLB Clears Dr. Neal ElAttrache
MLB announced on June 23, 2026 that it has no concerns about Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ team physician. After interviewing him, reviewing records, and confirming his cooperation with the Joint Drug Program, the league said no therapeutic-use exemption (TUE) requests of this type have been submitted by him or anyone else.
Background: McGregor TUE Letter
In 2021 Dr. ElAttrache wrote a letter supporting UFC champion Conor McGregor’s request for a TUE after McGregor’s leg-bone surgery. The New York Times highlighted the letter as a potential conflict with MLB’s anti-doping rules, prompting media scrutiny of the doctor’s dual role with the Dodgers and the Rams.
Key Figures and Relevant History
The principal actors are Dr. Neal ElAttrache, MLB, the Joint Drug Program, Conor McGregor, the New York Times, and The Athletic. Dr. ElAttrache has performed surgeries on Tom Brady (2008 ACL), Kobe Bryant (2013 Achilles) and Shohei Ohtani (2023 elbow, 2024 shoulder).
Timeline of Key Events
- 2008 – Tom Brady ACL reconstruction.
- 2013 – Kobe Bryant Achilles surgery.
- 2021 – Letter supporting Conor McGregor’s TUE request.
- 2023-2024 – Shohei Ohtani elbow and shoulder surgeries.
- June 23, 2026 – MLB clears Dr. ElAttrache.
Criticism and Opposition
The New York Times report raised concerns about a potential conflict between an MLB-affiliated physician and a UFC TUE request. The Athletic noted that MLB’s interview was not part of a formal investigation, indicating a gap in oversight.
Data and Statistics
MLB’s review found zero TUE requests of the type described in the McGregor case submitted by Dr. ElAttrache or any other physician. Dr. ElAttrache’s record includes three landmark procedures on elite athletes.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
MLB asserts no concerns, yet the letter supporting a TUE raises unanswered questions about Dr. ElAttrache’s involvement. No public record of the letter’s content or of a formal MLB investigation has been released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “MLB took our responsibility to conduct due diligence in this matter seriously,” — MLB spokesperson
- “We consider this matter closed.” — MLB spokesperson
- “It is nearly impossible for physicians to defend themselves or explain their actions in a public setting regarding and unusual case such as this while honoring the ethical obligation to a patient’s privacy,” — Dr. Neal ElAttrache
Implications for MLB Anti-Doping Oversight
The clearance confirms MLB’s expectation that team physicians follow the Joint Drug Program, but the episode highlights the need for protocols when a doctor treats athletes in multiple leagues. Scrutiny may lead MLB to tighten guidance on external medical actions that could affect its anti-doping regime.
