Philadelphia Phillies closer José Alvarado has been handed an 80-game suspension by Major League Baseball after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug. The suspension, effective immediately, will sideline the key reliever for a significant portion of the season and render him ineligible for the postseason, a major blow to the team’s playoff aspirations.
Key Takeaways
- José Alvarado, the Phillies’ closer, received an 80-game suspension for violating MLB’s Joint Prevention and Treatment Program.
- The suspension is effective immediately and means Alvarado will miss the remainder of the regular season and any potential postseason games.
- Alvarado has apologized for his mistake, attributing the positive test to a weight loss drug taken in the offseason.
- The Phillies organization expressed disappointment but supports MLB’s program.
Alvarado’s Suspension and Its Impact
The suspension marks a significant setback for the Phillies, who are in contention for a playoff spot in the National League East. Alvarado, a vital part of their bullpen, had posted a 2.70 ERA with seven saves and 25 strikeouts in 20 innings pitched before the suspension. His absence leaves a void in a bullpen that already ranks among the league’s worst.
The 80-game ban is the standard penalty for a first-time offender under MLB’s policy. A second violation would result in a 162-game suspension, with a third leading to a lifetime ban. Alvarado’s suspension will make him unavailable until mid-August, but the inability to pitch in the postseason is a more pressing concern for the team.
Team’s Response and Future Considerations
The Phillies organization stated their full support for Major League Baseball’s Joint Prevention and Treatment Program and expressed disappointment regarding Alvarado’s violation. The team is now faced with the challenge of finding a reliable replacement for their closer. Potential candidates like Jordan Romano, Tanner Banks, or Matt Strahm may be considered, though their performance has been inconsistent. This situation could also prompt the team to prioritize acquiring bullpen help before the trade deadline.
Alvarado, who is in his fifth season with Philadelphia and the final year of a three-year, $22 million contract, is losing approximately $4.5 million due to the suspension. The team holds a $9 million club option for him in 2026, a decision that may be influenced by this incident.
Alvarado’s Apology and Return
As his return date approached, Alvarado issued an apology on social media, expressing remorse for his actions. He acknowledged that using prohibited substances is wrong and stated he never intended to disrespect the game, his organization, teammates, or fans. He attributed the positive test to a weight loss drug he took during the offseason and vowed to work hard to help the team win upon his return.
Alvarado tested positive for exogenous testosterone. He is eligible to return to the Phillies on August 19th, but his ineligibility for the postseason remains a significant consequence of his violation.