The Philadelphia Phillies’ season has been full of unexpected twists and turns, with top reliever at the center of too many of them. José Alvarado appeared to have the inside track to being the closer at the start of the season after Jordan Romano struggled. However, the lefty fireballer received an 80-game sentence for performance-enhancing drug use in May, making him unable to throw in the playoffs. Alvarado returned to the Phillies on August 20, but after surrendering five earned runs in six innings, including three home runs, he was placed on the season-ending disabled list due to a forearm strain.
The Phillies have a $9 million club option for Alvarado next season, with a $500,000 buyout. On Sunday, Bob Nightengale of USA Today suggested that after all of his troubles this season, Philadelphia should simply let him go. “Now that Phillies late-inning reliever Jose Alvarado’s season is over, going on the IL with a strained left forearm and ineligible for the postseason because of his PED suspension, it will be interesting if the Phillies completely cut ties with him,” Nightengale said.
“Alvarado has a $9 million club option for 2026, but considering how much he let them down this season, it would make the most sense to buy out his $500,000 option and say good-bye.” Alvarado’s overall numbers over his five seasons with the Phillies have been fairly good. He has a 3.48 ERA over 235 2/3 innings, 308 strikeouts, and a 3.36 FIP. However, it is a “what have you done for me lately” company, and this season will undoubtedly leave a bad taste in the front office’s mouth. If the Phillies do not re-sign Alvarado, they will face serious rebuilding challenges with a bullpen that includes lockdown closer Jhoan Duran.