UPDATE: Philadelphia Phillies reliever Jose Alvarado has issued a heartfelt apology to his teammates and fans as he approaches the end of his 80-game suspension for violating MLB drug policies. The announcement was made via his Instagram account on Tuesday, just days before his eligibility to return on August 19, 2023.
In a poignant message, Alvarado expressed his remorse: “I am fully aware that using prohibited substances is wrong and I would never intend to do so because I have always had great respect for the game, my organization, my teammates, and the fans, all of whom I want to offer my sincere apologies.” He noted the consequences of his actions, stating, “I made a mistake and therefore, I have faced the consequences set forth by MLB.”
The left-handed pitcher tested positive for exogenous testosterone, a performance-enhancing substance, leading to his suspension starting on May 18. Although Alvarado can begin a minor league assignment shortly, he will miss the postseason, significantly impacting the Phillies’ playoff strategy as they lead the National League Central by 1.5 games.
Phillies president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, indicated that the positive test resulted from a weight-loss drug Alvarado used during the offseason. Alvarado will lose $4.5 million, half of his $9 million salary for this year, as part of a $22 million, three-year contract signed in 2023. The team holds a $9 million option for him in 2026 with a $500,000 buyout.
Reflecting on his journey, Alvarado stated, “There is always a lesson to be learned in every mistake.” His return to Citizens Bank Park is highly anticipated, where he has posted a record of 4-1 with seven saves and a 2.70 ERA in 20 appearances this season, showcasing his potential to energize the bullpen.
Despite Alvarado’s absence, manager Rob Thomson acknowledged the bullpen’s success, saying, “We’ve won a lot of games without him. But [Alvarado] certainly is going to bring more energy, and he’s going to bring another really, really good arm.” The Phillies recently bolstered their lineup by acquiring closer Jhoan Duran from the Minnesota Twins, showcasing their commitment to maintaining competitiveness during Alvarado’s suspension.
As fans eagerly await his comeback, Alvarado’s story serves as a reminder of the challenges athletes face and the importance of accountability in professional sports. His return is not only a personal comeback but also a pivotal moment for the Phillies as they gear up for the final stretch of the season.
Stay tuned for more updates on Alvarado’s progress as he prepares to rejoin his team in the fight for postseason glory.
