Phillies’ José Alvarado issues statement for first time since PED suspension, offers ‘deepest apologies’ for ‘mistake’
Phillies pitcher José Alvarado issued a statement on Tuesday for the first time since he was suspended by Major League Baseball for 80 games after testing positive for exogenous testosterone, a performance-enhancing drug. Alvarado offered his “deepest apologies” to the organization, his teammates, his family, his home country of Venezuela, the city of Philadelphia and his fans for his “mistake.”
“I am fully aware that using a prohibited substance 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,” Alvarado said within his statement, which was released in both English and Spanish on his personal Instagram page. “I made a mistake and therefore, I have faced the consequences set forth by MLB.”
Alvarado was the Phillies’ best reliever to start the season, posting a 2.70 ERA in 20 games with seven saves. He displayed a resurgence in velocity, with his fastball averaging 99.3 mph.
That strong showing came to a halt when the news of his suspension broke the morning of May 18, which Alvarado called a “very difficult day.” He was not available for comment at the time, as he had already left Philadelphia.
“The Phillies fully support Major League Baseball’s Joint Prevention and Treatment Program and are disappointed to hear today’s news of Jose’s violation,” the team said in a statement after the suspension was announced.
Phillies manager Rob Thomson said Alvarado will be back at Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday before beginning a minor-league rehab assignment in the coming days. The left-hander is eligible to return from his suspension on Aug. 19 when the Phillies play the Mariners, but he will not be permitted to participate in the postseason if the club makes it.
“Going forward,” Alvarado said, “my focus is on working hard to help the team win.”
While he may not be an option in the playoffs, the Phillies do have to get there first, and Alvarado could be a contributor down the stretch of the regular season. Of course, there’s no guarantee he will perform as well as he did before the suspension. But if he can pitch at a level anywhere close to it when he steps back on the mound, the Phillies would benefit on the field.
“There is always a lesson to be learned in every mistake,” Alvarado said. “I thank God for giving me the strength to overcome this situation. I am glad to be back and ready to support the team.”
Alvarado’s statement can be read in full below: