Why Phillies Pitcher Jose Alvarado Got Suspended?
The Philadelphia Phillies just got a brutal bullpen blow, and it has nothing to do with an injury. Star reliever Jose Alvarado has been suspended a whopping 80 games after testing positive for a banned substance, and fans are shocked.
Why Jose Alvarado Got Suspended?
Major League Baseball dropped the hammer on Sunday, announcing that Alvarado tested positive for exogenous testosterone, a performance-enhancing drug that violates the league’s drug policy. This isn’t a minor slap on the wrist either. First-time offenders like Alvarado get hit with an automatic 80-game suspension, and yes, that means he’s out for most of the season, including the postseason if the Phillies get there.
It’s a massive hit for a team that had World Series hopes pinned on a strong bullpen.
The worst part? Alvarado was dealing this season. The lefty had a 2.70 ERA in 20 appearances, notching seven saves and 25 strikeouts. He was one of the most reliable arms out of the pen and a go-to guy in high-leverage situations.
Also Read: Oswaldo Cabrera Injury: What Happened to Oswaldo Cabrera?
What’s Next for Philadelphia Phillies?
The Phillies sit at 27–18, chasing the Mets in the NL East, and Alvarado was a huge part of that success.
With Alvarado out, the Phillies will have to lean more heavily on guys like Matt Strahm, Jordan Romano, and Orion Kerkering to keep things afloat. It’s a next-man-up situation, but losing your best late-inning weapon for 80 games? That’s tough to spin.
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