The Philadelphia Phillies, after sweeping the Pittsburgh Pirates in their Rivalry Weekend series, suffered a significant setback.
The team announced that reliever Jose Alvarado would be suspended for 80 games after testing positive for a banned substance, ruling him out for the rest of the season, including any potential playoff run.
Alvarado had been one of the Phillies’ most reliable high-leverage relievers during a strong start to the season, making his absence a major blow to the team’s World Series hopes.
If the Phillies were already looking to add a reliever by the trade deadline, this latest development has left them in urgent need of one. As they evaluate trade options, the team’s star player weighed in on the challenge facing president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski, with opposing teams now aware of the Phillies’ increased desperation.
“It’s tough when a guy goes out of the clubhouse in that way because … teams know that we need it,” Bryce Harper said, per Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer. “Obviously, Dave does a good job getting value for value. But also, it’s a tough situation to be in because teams do know that we’re hurting and we need something.”
Any team looking to move a reliable closer for future prospects will have plenty of suitors, as a solid reliever would be a valuable asset for almost any contender aiming for a deep playoff run. With Philadelphia’s bullpen now exposed, opposing teams are in a strong position to demand a significant return in any trade negotiations.
However, the Phillies do have one advantage: despite their bullpen issues, they boast a deep and effective starting rotation. With top prospect Andrew Painter set to debut soon, the team could explore the option of trading away a starting pitcher in exchange for a relief arm in the coming weeks.
Leave a Reply