The Philadelphia Phillies were dealt a critical blow on Sunday. It was announced that Relief Pitcher Jose Alvarado will be suspended for 80 games for a positive PED suspension. He tested positive for Exogenous Testosterone. The reliever will also be ineligible if the Phillies were to qualify for the 2025 MLB Playoffs. He was 4-1 this season with a 2.70 ERA and 7 saves. How will the team fare without this key reliever?
Jose Alvarado Career Summary
Alvarado began his career with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2017. He spent four seasons there and has been a member of the Philadelphia Phillies since 2021. During his tenure in Philadelphia, he has been both a closer and a set-up man. He struggled during the 2022 postseason, which saw Philadelphia advance to the World Series. He had a miserable 5.56 ERA over that playoff run. He has a career record of 19-26 with a 3.40 ERA.
Final Thoughts
This suspension will difficult for the ballclub to overcome. He is an important piece of Philadelphia’s late-game formula. The replacement for Alvarado is Jordan Romano. He was signed by the team this offseason and has ample experience being a team’s primary closer. He will look to fill the large shoes left by Alvarado’s suspension.
