` ****  While steriods were not ``against the rules``, per MLB guidelines, they need not have been, as they were, and are, a federally regulated controlled substance.  The use, distribution, or dispensation of steroids is regulated per the Anabolic Steroids Control Act of 1990. In this case MLB did not even say that steroids were within the rules; they didn't say anything at all.  Even if MLB had explicitly said the use of steroids were within the rules, it would still be a moot point.  While it is true that MLB is a private organization, they do not have the right to set rules that contradict local, state or federal law.  Even if state and local laws allowed for steroid use (which they don't), the federal law would trump them all(see the DEA's shameful prosecution of medical marijuana users if you need this substantiated). `