Phillies closer hit with 80-game, postseason PED suspension

Philadelphia Phillies closer Jose Alvarado has been suspended for 80 games and won’t be eligible for the postseason after testing positive for exogenous testosterone, a banned PED, according to Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY Sports. Nightengale notes that the Phillies were already on the lookout for pitching help and are now “desperate” for an Alvarado replacement.

This is Alvarado’s fifth season in Philadelphia after starting his career with the Tampa Bay Rays. The lefty has already made 20 appearances in 2025, boasting a 2.70 ERA, 25 strikeouts and seven saves in 20.0 innings pitched. In his five seasons with the Phillies, he has an ERA of 3.37 in 251 appearances.