The Phillies are missing three key players — José Alvarado, Alec Bohm, and Aaron Nola. Before Sunday night’s matchup with the Tigers, manager Rob Thomson shared updates on Alvarado and Bohm.
Phillies’ Alvarado will be in town this week
Alvarado, who is still serving is 80-game PED suspension, is expected to work his way back into the bullpen after the lengthy hiatus.
“I would think I’d ease him back in,” Thomson said. “He’s been off for a long time. I know he;s thrown batting practice, but that’s just not the same. He’s going to be in Philly tomorrow, but not at the ballpark, but will come to ballpark on Tuesday.”
The flame-throwing lefty was having a solid season prior to his suspension, posting a 2.70 ERA in 20 appearances with seven saves.
Bohm getting closer
Thomson was also asked about the team’s third baseman in Bohm, who is working his way back from a fractured left rib.
“He’s hitting in the cage. I’m sure in the next couple days he’ll be outside hitting and doing some machine work. He’s getting close.”
Thomson eluded that the plan for Bohm is for him to start a rehab assignment to get him back up to speed after being out with the injury since July 18.
Bader Bombs
Recently acquired Harrison Bader, though not in the starting lineup, delivered an impressive batting practice session, repeatedly launching home runs into the left field seats and delighting fans eager to snag one before the game.
Harrison Bader made his Phillies debut in Friday’s series opener, coming in as a pinch-hitter. He drew a walk in his first plate appearance and later scored a run, contributing to the team’s impressive 5-4 comeback win to kick off the series.
Cristopher Sánchez (9-3, 2.55 ERA) is set to face off against veteran Charlie Morton (7-8, 5.42 ERA) in the rubber match of the three-game set on Sunday Night Baseball, airing on ESPN.
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