Philadelphia Phillies reliever Jose Alvarado was suspended 80 games after testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance. In the wake of that suspension, the Phillies will have to look elsewhere for bullpen help. But it could also spell the end of Alvarado’s time in Philadelphia.
Former MLB general manager Jim Bowden on Fourl Territory urged the Phillies not to pick up Alvarado’s $9 million option for the 2026 season. When Bowden was asked what he’d do with Alvarado’s option, he said, “Bye. Bye. Yeah, I’ll replace him. I’ll spend the money elsewhere. I’ll spend $6 million more and get a better closer.”
Normally, with how Alvarado has pitched, there wouldn’t be any question of whether they should pick it up or not. But his suspension has jeopardized the Phillies’ 2025 season and Alvarado’s $9 million contract option in 2026.
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Through his first 20 games before the suspension, Alvarado had a 2.70 ERA and seven saves. He struck out 25 batters compared to just four walks. His strikeout-to-walk ratio was more than double his career average.
Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Jose Alvarado (46) throws a pitch against the San Francisco Giants in the ninth inning at Citizens Bank Park.Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
His suspension hurt the Phillies significantly and will also drastically reduce his chances of earning the $9 million option that was on the table. Bowden, a former MLB general manager, had a strong opinion on whether that option should be used.
While he was pitching his way towards earning his $9 million option, Bowden believes he doesn’t deserve it anymore. Instead, the Phillies could, in the eyes of Bowden, spend a little more than the $9 million allocated to Alvarado and acquire a better reliever.
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Alvarado’s suspension is a massive blow to the Phillies for the remainder of the 2025 season, the 2025 postseason, and even into 2026. Rob Thomson will have his work cut out for him as he deals with a shortened staff amid Alvarado’s suspension.
The Phillies will have a decision to make in the offseason about whether to bring Alvarado back or not. For the former general manager, Bowden, that decision should be an easy one. Move on from Alvarado and look elsewhere for a new reliever.
Related: John Kruk Calls Out Phillies’ Jose Alvarado Amid Suspension
Related: Phillies’ Jose Alvarado Suspended 80 Games After Testing Positive For PEDs