Phillies' Jose Alvarado receives 80-game ban over positive PED test

"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.

Alvarado will be ineligible for the postseason should Philadelphia make it.

Alvarado appeared in 20 games for the Phillies this season. He had a 2.70 ERA with seven saves and 25 strikeouts. He went viral earlier this month when he wrote a sweet message to his mom on his hat for Mother's Day.

Losing Alvarado is a major obstacle for the Phillies. The team will have to lean on Jordan Romano, Matt Strahm and Orion Kerkering even more as the season wears on.

Philadelphia were 27-18 and in second place in the National League East division as they entered Sunday.