Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher José Alvarado has been handed an 80-game suspension without pay for violating Major League Baseball’s drug policy.
According to an official MLB statement released Sunday, Alvarado tested positive for exogenous testosterone, a banned performance-enhancing drug.
The suspension takes effect immediately, and as a result, Alvarado will also be ineligible for the postseason this year.
The Phillies responded by expressing their disappointment, stating that they fully support MLB’s Joint Prevention and Treatment Program and are disheartened to learn about José’s violation.
So far this season, Alvarado has been a key figure in the Phillies’ bullpen, leading the team with seven saves. He has posted a 4-1 record with a 2.70 ERA across 20 appearances, recording 25 strikeouts and just four walks over 20 innings.
Alvarado becomes the second player this year to be suspended under MLB’s drug testing policy, following Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar, who was suspended for 80 games on March 31.