José Alvarado Suspension Leaves Phillies With Massive Hole in Already Suspect Bullpen
There have been few bright spots in the Phillies bullpen this season. José Alvarado was one of them.
Not only did he have a 2.70 ERA and seven saves - both the best among Philly relievers - but he was also a local favorite, with moments that included meeting a young fan who mimicked his pitching motion and a special Mother's Day message on his cap.
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Which makes his sudden PED suspension all the more hurtful.
While the Phillies could still make a run to the Postseason without Alvarado available for the next 80 games, the real challenge will be in October. As part of his suspension, José is ineligible for any playoff games, when he would have been needed the most.
José Alvarado during Game Four of the 2023 NDLS against the Atlanta Braves. He had a 1.13 ERA throughout that Postseason.Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
During his career, Alvarado has been a lockdown arm in the playoffs. There have been a few blemishes, such as Game Six of the 2022 World Series and his sole appearance in the NLDS last year, but overall, he was very dependable over the past three runs.
The Phils were already in need of some bullpen help, but now that issue has grown to alarming levels. Aside from Alvarado, their only lockdown arm has been Matt Strahm. Orion Kerkering has been good aside from two rough appearances, and Jordan Romano has returned to form this month, but either would be an enormous risk to lean on. The same can be said for any of the Phillies pitching prospects currently at Triple-A.
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Even worse, Dylan Cease, who was supposed to be the top reliever on the trade market this summer, could be staying put as the St. Louis Cardinals make their own case for the playoffs. That leaves Kyle Finnegan, currently with the division rival Washington Nationals, as the most likely trade candidate - one who will attract a lot of leverage.
Related: Phillies' Bryce Harper Reacts to Joining Prestigious Group of MLB Players
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