Phillies Face Challenge After Alvarado Suspension
The Philadelphia Phillies began the season with high expectations, fueled in part by José Alvarado’s performance. However, a setback has emerged for the team.
Alvarado, a key player in the bullpen, was suspended for 80 games by MLB due to a positive testosterone test. This situation represents a challenge for the Phillies, especially before their seven-game series against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field.
Just do your job and try not to overdo it, because I think we have enough talent in our bullpen. Don’t try to do too much. Throw strikes. Be yourselves, and we’ll get it done.
Rob Thomson, Phillies Manager
Manager Rob Thomson trusts in the ability of his relievers to maintain the level. Alvarado, with a record of 4-1, an effectiveness of 2.70 and seven saves, leaves a void in the team. Other pitchers like Jordan Romano, Matt Strahm and Taijuan Walker have assumed important roles.
Thomson plans to explore other options in the bullpen, including Joe Ross and José Ruiz. The team has reinforced its bullpen with the addition of Max Lazar from Triple-A.
Lazar, with good recent performance, is a versatile option for the team. Alvarado, in case there are no suspensions, could return on August 19 against Seattle. The suspension will cost him $4.5 million of his salary.
Despite the suspension and the consequent ineligibility for the postseason, Thomson will not hesitate to use Alvarado in the last six weeks of the regular season if his performance warrants it.
