UPDATE: Philadelphia Phillies reliever Jose Alvarado has issued a heartfelt apology to teammates and fans on Instagram as he approaches the end of his 80-game suspension for violating MLB’s drug policy. The announcement, made on August 15, 2023, comes as Alvarado prepares to rejoin the team, with eligibility to return on August 19.
In his post, Alvarado expressed deep remorse, stating, “I am fully aware that using prohibited substances is wrong… I want to offer my sincere apologies.” The left-hander faced a suspension after testing positive for exogenous testosterone, a performance-enhancing substance, on May 18. He attributed the positive test to a weight-loss drug he used during the offseason, according to Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski.
As Alvarado gears up for a minor league assignment before his return, the impact of his absence has been felt. The Phillies currently lead the National League Central by 1.5 games, showcasing resilience despite losing a key player. 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.”
Alvarado’s suspension will result in a financial hit, costing him $4.5 million, half of his $9 million salary for this season. He is under a three-year contract worth $22 million, with the team holding a $9 million option for 2026.
The emotional weight of his return is palpable as Alvarado aims to regain the trust of both fans and teammates. “There is always a lesson to be learned in every mistake,” he remarked in his apology, highlighting the personal journey he has faced during this challenging period.
Looking ahead, Alvarado’s return is anticipated to bolster the Phillies’ pitching lineup. The team recently acquired closer Jhoan Duran from the Minnesota Twins, reflecting their commitment to strengthening their roster as they push for postseason success.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as the Phillies navigate this pivotal moment in their season, with Alvarado’s return marking a significant turning point in their campaign.