Major League Baseball announced Sunday that Philadelphia Phillies closer José Alvarado has been suspended 80 games after testing positive for exogenous testosterone, a performance-enhancing drug.
Alvarado won't be eligible to pitch in the postseason upon his return.
The hard-throwing lefty has worked to a 2.70 ERA and 1.20 WHIP with seven saves in 20 innings pitched this season.
Alvarado, 29, has been an integral part of the Phillies' bullpen over the past five seasons. He holds a 3.37 ERA (124 ERA+) and 11.8 K/9 with 37 saves during his time in Philadelphia.
He's in the final season of a three-year contract that includes a $9-million club option for 2026.
Jordan Romano appears most likely to handle the bulk of the save opportunities moving forward. The righty got off to a rocky start with the Phillies but has made seven straight scoreless appearances.
Philadelphia's bullpen ranks 12th in the National League with a 4.66 ERA.
