Philadelphia was dealt a significant blow over the weekend when ace reliever José Alvarado was hit with an 80-game performance-enhancing drug suspension. He claims it was a weight less drug, though the reason is irrelevant now.

How the Phillies handle the loss of Alvarado now will be different than how they confront it in July and perhaps October.

The Philadelphia Phillies recently were dealt a heavy blow. José Alvarado was suspended for 80 games after failing a performance-enhancing drug test. The Phillies' bullpen already was in question and now they will lose Alvarado for 80 games and he won't be eligible for the postseason.

The Philadelphia Phillies were dealt a devastating blow to their bullpen when top reliever Jose Alvarado was suspended 80 games

Orion Kerkering and Taijuan Walker were cruising comfortably below the radar. Their performances on the mound ranged from remarkable to ordinary to completely unacceptable. The general success of the Phillies,

With the recent news about the suspension of Jose Alvarado, the Philadelphia Phillies’ need for bullpen help has increased. The Phillies have been on an excellent roll of late, making up a lot of ground on the New York Mets in the National League East.

The Phillies optioned Mick Abel back to Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Monday and recalled right-handed reliever Max Lazar.