The Philadelphia Phillies and Jose Alvarado have been in contact after his 80-game PED suspension, as he's expected to return to the bullpen on August 18th.
Phillies' Jose Alvarado Expects to Start Rehab Assignment Ahead of Return to Bullpen originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Philadelphia Phillies bullpen has struggled a lot this season. Sitting with the eighth-worst ERA (4.25) after 100 games, the bullpen needs to undergo some changes before long.
With the trade deadline on the horizon, the team is expected to seek help, especially during the postseason. But, in mid-August, the Phillies are expected to get back an incredible left-handed reliever who can make a difference.
According to Matt Gelb of The Athletic, the Phillies and suspended left-hander Jose Alvarado have been in contact as the reliever is less than a month away from potentially returning to the bullpen.
"The Phillies have been in contact with Jose Alvarado, who can return Aug. 18," Gelb writes. "He will go on a 15-day assignment to the minor leagues before that. He's been working out and throwing in Venezuela."
Alvarado was suspended for 80 games and the entire postseason after getting popped for PEDs in May. Before his suspension, he was one of the Phillies' best relievers, so his absence has stung.
While he can't make a difference in the postseason, he can help the team down the stretch in August and September to secure a top seed and a postseason berth.
Alvarado had a 2.70 ERA, seven saves, 25 strikeouts, and four walks in 20 innings before getting suspended. He likely won't be that great once he returns, but his presence will be welcome for the final leg of the regular season.
Dave Dombrowski doesn't believe his time off from his 80-game PED suspension will hinder him. "I don't think that will happen with this case at all," Dombrowski said.
While the Phillies won't get Alvarado back for nearly another month and won't have him for the postseason, he could still factor into what the Phillies do at the trade deadline.
He's available for a month and a half, so instead of multiple relievers, the Phillies could target just one at the deadline.
Alvarado can return as soon as August 18th, and won't be able to pitch in the postseason. He'll play a role for the Phillies to close out the regular season, and bolster a bullpen in need of help in any way it can get it.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 22, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Baseball
