In a major blow to the Phillies and their bullpen, Major League Baseball announced on Sunday that left-handed reliever José Alvarado was suspended 80 games for testing positive for exogenous Testosterone, a performance-enhancing substance. The suspension is effective immediately and makes Alvarado ineligible for postseason play.
Alvarado’s last appearances came Friday night against the Pirates. He’s been the Phillies’ top reliever and one of baseball’s best this season. He’s appeared in 20 games, saving seven and striking out 25 batters with a 2.70 ERA.
The Phillies issued the following statement on Alvarado’s suspension:
“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.