AN MLB pitcher has been given a huge suspension due to a failed drug test.
The MLB revealed the suspension punishment decision on Sunday.
GettyPhiladelphia Phillies reliever José Alvarado pitches in the eighth inning against the Washington Nationals on April 29[/caption] GettyAlvarado’s last game appearance came against the Pittsburgh Pirates last Friday[/caption]Over the weekend, Philadelphia Phillies star reliever Jose Alvarado was suspended by MLB for 80 games without pay for violating the league’s drug policy.
Alvarado will not appeal the suspension and isn’t eligible to play in the postseason.
The 29-year-old tested positive for exogenous testosterone, which is a performance-enhancing substance, the MLB said in a statement.
Phillies general manager Dave Dombrowski said the drug was taken for weight loss and wasn’t for a competitive advantage.
“It’s not something he did knowingly,” Dombrowski said, per ESPN. “I believe that, the way he talked to me.”
Alvarado will forfeit $4.5 million due to the 80-game suspension.
The hard-throwing left-hander was a major contributor to the Phillies’ bullpen.
Alvarado posted a team-leading seven saves this season.
The Venezuelan also recorded 25 strikeouts and four walks in 20 innings pitched.
Alvarado last pitched in a two-out outing against the Pittsburgh Pirates last Friday.
He will be eligible to return on August 19 against the Seattle Seahawks.
Alvarado signed a three-year, $22 million contract with the Phillies in 2023.
He’s been with the Phillies since 2021 after spending four seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays.
The Phillies will now rely on other closing options, which include Jordan Romano and Orion Kerkering.
Romano has five saves this season.
ReutersAlvarado has a 2.70 ERA and seven saves for the Phillies this season[/caption]His last save came on Sunday when he struck out the side to claim the 1-0 Phillies win over the Pirates.
The Phillies have the third-best record (28-18) in the NL.
The MLB previously handed an 80-game suspension to Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar on March 31 for failing the MLB’s drug testing program.
That was the first suspension of the 2025 season.
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