Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Jose Alvarado was suspended for 80 games for violating Major League Baseball’s drug policy on Sunday.
The reliever tested positive for exogenous testosterone, a performance enhancing substance that is banned in the MLB. According to Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski, Alvarado tested positive due to a weight-loss drug he took in the offseason.
The Phillies are 28-18 and sit half a game back of the first place New York Mets in the National League East. Alvarado has been a key contributor to Philadelphia’s success, posting a 4-1 record with seven saves and a 2.70 ERA in 20 appearances.
MLB Network insider Jon Morosi broke down possible internal and external options to replace Alvarado on MLB Central.
Internally, the Phillies will look for Jordan Romano to carry a heavier load. Over his last eight appearances, the two-time All-Star has four saves and hasn’t allowed a run. He has an 11:1 K/BB ratio over that stretch, holding opponents to just a .115 batting average and .302 OPS.
Orion Kerkering and Matt Strahm will also have bigger roles. Kerkering is having a down year compared to last season but has looked better as of late, posting a 3-1 record with a 4.08 ERA in 20 appearances. Strahm is 1-2 with two saves and a 2.89 ERA in 21 appearances.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Externally, Morosi cited St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley as a potential trade candidate if the Cardinals decide to sell. Helsley is 0-1 with nine saves and a 2.81 ERA in 16 appearances.
St. Louis has been winning as of late and are only two games behind the Chicago Cubs in the National League Central, so time will tell if they decide to hold onto the two-time All-Star.
More MLB: Phillies should target $12 million Rays closer to replace Jose Alvarado