Philadelphia Phillies closer Jose Alvarado has been suspended 80 games after testing positive for exogenous Testosterone, MLB announced Sunday.
Alvarado, who has a team-leading seven saves in seven opportunities, is in his ninth major league season – playing his first four with the Tampa Bay Rays and the past five with the Phillies.
Under MLB rules, the left-hander will be able to return for the Phillies’ final 37 games of the regular season, but will be ineligible for any potential playoff games.
Despite the Phillies signing free agent closer Jordan Romano this past offseason, Alvarado, 29, has been more effective in the closer’s role. He has a 4-1 record and 2.70 ERA over 20 appearances – while Romano is 0-1 with a 7.71 ERA and four saves in six opportunities.
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