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18h ago

Phillies’ José Alvarado Suspended 80 Games for PED Violation

The closer tested positive for exogenous testosterone, leaving the team to address bullpen challenges and postseason ineligibility.

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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MAY 12: Bryce Harper #3 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on against the St. Louis Cardinals at Citizens Bank Park on May 12, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Cardinals defeated the Phillies 3-2. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Jose Alvarado #46 of the Philadelphia Phillies high fives starting pitcher Aaron Nola #27 after defeating the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park on July 17, 2022 in Miami, Florida.
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - MAY 9: Felix Bautista #74 of the Baltimore Orioles gestures in the ninth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on May 9, 2025 in Anaheim, California.

Overview

  • Major League Baseball announced José Alvarado's 80-game suspension after testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance.
  • Alvarado will miss the postseason, regardless of the Phillies’ playoff status, and forfeits approximately $4.18 million in salary.
  • The Phillies’ bullpen, already struggling with one of MLB’s worst ERAs, faces increased pressure to find replacements internally or through trades.
  • President Dave Dombrowski confirmed the positive test stemmed from a weight-loss drug Alvarado took during the offseason but emphasized player accountability for banned substances.
  • Manager Rob Thomson and star Bryce Harper expressed the need for the team to move forward, with potential trade market moves under consideration to bolster the bullpen.