José Alvarado Apologizes for Violation of MLB’s Anti-Doping Policy
Philadelphia Phillies reliever José Alvarado publicly apologized via Instagram for violating MLB’s drug policy, resulting in an 80-game suspension.
The pitcher is close to completing his suspension.
“I am fully aware that using prohibited substances is wrong and I would never do it knowingly because I have always had great respect for the game, my organization, my teammates and the fans, to all of whom I want to offer my sincere apologies,” Alvarado declared.
José Alvarado
In his post, Alvarado admitted his mistake and stated he had accepted the consequences imposed by MLB. Now, his focus is on working hard to contribute to the team’s success.
Alvarado tested positive for exogenous testosterone, a performance-enhancing substance, which led to his suspension on May 18. Phillies’ president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, explained that the positive result was due to a weight loss medication Alvarado took during the offseason.
The left-handed pitcher, who returned to Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday, has a 4-1 record with seven saves and an ERA of 2.70 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 can participate in minor league assignments before being eligible to return on August 19, but he will not be able to play in the postseason for the Phillies, who lead the National League Central by 1 1/2 games before Tuesday’s action.
The team acquired closer Jhoan Duran from the Minnesota Twins at the trade deadline.
Manager Rob Thomson commented on the Phillies’ bullpen performance: “I think they’ve done pretty well without him, to be honest. We’ve won a lot of games without him. But [Alvarado] will certainly bring more energy and bring another really, really good arm.”
