Phillies' Jose Alvarado Apologizes After 80-Game Suspension

Phillies relief pitcher back after PED suspension

Phillies reliever Jose Alvarado apologizes after testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance, missing the playoffs and losing half his $9 million salary.

“I am fully aware that using prohibited substances is wrong and I would never intend to do so...”

Phillies reliever Jose Alvarado apologized to teammates and fans after receiving an 80-game suspension for a performance-enhancing substance violation. Alvarado tested positive for exogenous testosterone, leading to the ban that will keep him out until August 19. “I am glad to be back,” Alvarado said, expressing regret for his actions.

Although Jose Alvarado will return to the Phillies on August 19 and can pitch for the rest of the regular season, he won't be eligible to participate in the playoffs due to his suspension.

“I am fully aware that using prohibited substances is wrong and I would never intend to do so because I've always had great respect for the game, my organization, my teammates, and the fans, all of whom I want to offer my sincere apologies,” Alvarado wrote in an Instagram post.

Jose Alvarado has released a statement on Instagram about his PED suspension. pic.twitter.com/aP7YdmJWG8

— Phillies Tailgate (@PhilsTailgate) August 5, 2025

Jose Alvarado's 80-game suspension will also cost him half of his $9 million salary for this season. The reliever previously played four seasons with Tampa Bay before being traded to the Phillies in December 2020.

Before his suspension, Alvarado went 4-1 this season with seven saves and a 2.70 earned-run average plus 25 strikeouts with four walks in 20 innings for the Phillies.

Philadelphia has a 64-48 record to lead the National League East division by 1.5 games over the New York Mets.