Philadelphia Phillies followed their weekend sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates with a significant setback. Shortly after winning all three games in their Rivalry Weekend series, the team revealed that key reliever Jose Alvarado would be suspended for 80 games after testing positive for a banned substance. This suspension also rules him out for the postseason, delivering a major blow to the Phillies’ bullpen, where Alvarado had been a trusted late-inning option during a strong start to the year. With the Phillies already eyeing bullpen help ahead of the trade deadline, Alvarado’s absence has turned a need into a near-emergency.
Phillies Star Closer Jose Alvarado Suspended 80 Games After Positive PED Test
Franchise star Bryce Harper acknowledged the tough situation now facing president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski, noting that opposing teams are well aware of the Phillies’ growing urgency. “It’s hard when a guy leaves the clubhouse like that because… teams know we’re in need,” Harper told The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Scott Lauber. “Dave does a great job getting fair value, but it’s still a tough spot because everyone knows we’re hurting.”
Bryce Harper gives honest thoughts on José Alvarado’s suspension – On Pattison | THE Philly Sports Website
Relievers capable of closing games are always in demand, especially for playoff contenders, and the Phillies’ newfound vulnerability could drive up asking prices from sellers. Still, Philadelphia may have one advantage: a strong starting rotation, which could allow them to trade from a position of depth. With top prospect Andrew Painter nearing his MLB debut, the team might consider dealing a starter to acquire a high-leverage bullpen arm in the coming weeks.
