The announcement that José Alvarado had been banned without pay for 80 games by Major League Baseball after testing positive for exogenous testosterone was a surprise blow to the Phillies on Sunday.
The fact that his infraction also disqualifies him from the postseason is even more damaging.
Before the series finale versus the Pirates, the club was informed of the ban and released the following statement:
“The Phillies fully support Major League Baseball’s Joint Prevention and Treatment Program and are disappointed to hear today’s news of José’s violation.”
One of the Phillies’ most dependable relievers out of the bullpen and one of the most effective in the whole sport will now be out of the team.
According to Dave Dombrowski, president of baseball operations, “I end up treating it like an injury.” “He isn’t eligible for that time frame because you need to replace someone for 80 games and then, ideally, into the postseason.
“Based on the way he spoke to me, I don’t think he did it intentionally. In essence, the system is quite strict in that you are in charge of what you put into your body. It truly boils down to that.
He has always been self-conscious about his weight and has been working hard to reduce it, so I knew what he was doing. He did take something that had a favorable outcome, but in the end, you’re still accountable if it occurs.”
Alvarado was unable to comment on the ban since he was not at Citizens Bank Park. In 2025, he pitched 20 games and finished 4-1 with a 2.70 ERA. He might play against the Mariners on August 19.
