Phillies Lose Closer José Alvarado to 80-Game PED Suspension

Huge Blow to the Phillies

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The Philadelphia Phillies suffered a significant blow to their bullpen today, as Major League Baseball announced that reliever José Alvarado has been suspended 80 games without pay for violating the league’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. Alvarado tested positive for exogenous testosterone, a performance-enhancing substance banned under MLB’s policy.

The suspension not only rules Alvarado out for the remainder of the regular season but also makes him ineligible for the 2025 postseason. This is a major loss for a Phillies team currently contending in the National League, as Alvarado had emerged as the club’s most reliable late-inning arm. He led the team in saves with seven and had compiled a 4-1 record with a 2.70 ERA across 20 innings pitched. His 25 strikeouts to just four walks underscore the control and dominance he had shown this season.

In a statement released by the team, the Phillies said, “The Phillies fully support Major League Baseball's Joint Prevention and Treatment Program and are disappointed to hear today's news of Jose's violation.”

President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski added that Alvarado attributed the failed test to his usage of a weight loss drug. Now, with their top bullpen weapon sidelined, Philadelphia will be forced to reshuffle its late-inning roles as it pushes toward October.