Philadelphia Phillies reliever José Alvarado is nearing the end of his 80-game suspension imposed for violating MLB’s banned substances policy. Recently, Alvarado offered apologies to his teammates and fans via a social media post.
I am fully aware that the use of prohibited substances is incorrect and I never intended to do so, as I have always had great respect for the game, my organization, my teammates and the fans, to whom I want to offer my sincere apologies.
José Alvarado
In his statement, Alvarado admitted to having made a mistake and accepted the consequences established by MLB. Now, his focus is on working hard to contribute to the team’s success.Phillies reliever José Alvarado will lose $4.5 million this season due to his 80-game suspension.The left-handed pitcher tested positive for exogenous testosterone, a performance-enhancing substance, and was suspended on May 18. Alvarado can begin an assignment in the minor leagues before being eligible to return on August 19, but will not be able to participate in the postseason with the Phillies, who lead the National League Central by 1 1/2 games before Tuesday’s games.
Phillies’ president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, has indicated that the positive result was due to a weight loss medication that Alvarado took during the offseason.
Alvarado, who returned to Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday, has a 4-1 record with seven saves and a 2.70 ERA in 20 appearances this season. He has recorded 25 strikeouts and four walks in 20 innings pitched.
As a result of the suspension, Alvarado will lose $4.5 million, half of his $9 million salary this year, as part of a three-year, $22 million contract he signed in 2023. Philadelphia has a $9 million option on Alvarado for 2026 with a $500,000 buyout.
Alvarado has a 19-26 record with a 3.40 ERA in 399 relief appearances and one start in nine seasons in the Major Leagues with Tampa Bay (2017-20) and the Phillies (2021-25). He has 52 saves in 68 appearances and participated in 21 postseason games in the last three seasons.
The Phillies made a roster move on Tuesday, reinstating reliever Joe Ross from the injured list and sending Seth Johnson to Triple-A.
