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4 hours ago
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The Philadelphia Phillies enter Sunday just a couple of games behind the New York Mets for the top spot in the National League East. However, the Phillies got some crushing news on Sunday regarding reliever Jose Alvarado.
Per MLB.com reporter Todd Zolecki, Alvarado has been suspended for 80 games by the MLB due to PEDs.
"The Office of the Commissioner of Baseball announced today that Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Jose Alvarado has received an 8-game suspension without pay after testing positive for exogenous Testosterone, a performance enhancing substance, in violation of Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. The suspension of Alvarado is effective immediately."
Alvarado has been an important of the Phillies bullpen this year. On the season, he has a 4-1 record with a 2.70 ERA, seven saves and five holds while appearing in 20 games.
So, 80 games means he is out until the summer in a tough blow for the Phillies, and they might have to explore the trade market to find another option to pitch late in games.
Alvarado was set to make $9 million in 2025, but being suspended for half of the season is a crucial blow to his salary and to the Phillies bullpen. Jordan Romano is the immediate option to fill in as the Phillies closer as he has four saves this year.
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