José Alvarado, closer for the Philadelphia Phillies, has been handed an 80-game suspension by Major League Baseball after testing positive for exogenous testosterone. This suspension is immediate, and as a result, Alvarado will miss the postseason unless the team fails to qualify. He had a solid season with a 2.70 ERA and seven saves, making his absence a significant blow to the Phillies' bullpen, which ranks low in ERA.

The Phillies activated José Ruiz from the injured list in response, but his involvement in save opportunities is questionable given the team's struggles in that area. The team issued a statement supporting MLB's drug policy but expressed disappointment over Alvarado's violation. This situation may lead the Phillies to seek additional relief help in the upcoming trade market, especially with the postseason in sight.