The Philadelphia Phillies’ bullpen was one of the more unpredictable elements of their 2025 season, and left-hander José Alvarado was at the center of much of the turbulence. Early on, Alvarado briefly took over closing duties and showed flashes of dominance. But his season was soon derailed by an 80-game suspension in May after he tested positive for a banned substance.
That suspension not only cost him the bulk of the regular season but also made him ineligible to pitch in the postseason. The Phillies were ultimately eliminated in October on a critical throwing error by another reliever — a moment that might have played out differently had Alvarado been available.
When healthy and eligible, Alvarado has been a trusted arm in high-leverage situations during the Phillies’ recent playoff runs. His fiery presence on the mound and late-inning experience had made him a key piece of their bullpen. Still, the suspension and his absence during the team’s most critical games likely damaged some of the trust between him and the organization.
Looking ahead, Alvarado could become a free agent this winter. However, the Phillies hold a $9.5 million club option for the 2026 season. Earlier in the year, it seemed like an easy decision to bring him back. But given the suspension and the fact he finished the regular season on the injured list, the choice now appears more complicated.
Despite the uncertainty, Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski offered a hint at the team’s plans during their end-of-season press conference. He said he expected Alvarado to be back with the club, though he stopped short of making any official commitment. “I’d be surprised without making any announcements that Alvarado’s not back with us,” Dombrowski said.
Alvarado’s performance after returning from suspension didn’t help his case. He posted a 7.50 ERA over his final eight appearances of the season, struggling with command and failing to lock down key innings. Before the suspension, however, he had looked sharp, with a 2.70 ERA and seven saves across 20 games.
Over his Phillies career, Alvarado has put together a solid resume: a 3.48 ERA, 3.36 FIP, and 308 strikeouts over 259 appearances. His postseason track record is more mixed, including a 4.50 ERA in 21 games and the infamous home run he gave up to Yordan Alvarez in the 2022 World Series — a moment that still lingers in the minds of many fans.
The Phillies now face a key decision. They could exercise the option and hope for a full, focused season from Alvarado, or decline it and risk losing him to a team offering a fresh start. With his upside and track record, it’s clear he still has value — but after a season of setbacks, that value comes with far more questions than it once did.
