José Alvarado Injury News & Updates

Alvarado struck out one in a perfect ninth inning Saturday to record his 10th save of the season in a 7-5 win over the Mets.

The lefty fired 11 of his 14 pitches for strikes and topped out at 98.3 mph in another impressive performance. Alvarado appears to have supplanted Craig Kimbrel in the pecking order for saves in the Phillies' bullpen -- he has three saves since Kimbrel recorded his last one Sept. 11, with the right-hander blowing his most recent opportunity Friday. Since returning from elbow inflammation in late August, Alvarado has a 2.70 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 21:9 K:BB through 13.1 innings with four saves and five holds over 14 appearances.

Alvarado picked up the save Thursday against the Mets. He allowed a hit while striking out two over a scoreless inning.

Alvarado worked around Brandon Nimmo's one-out double, logging a pair of strikeouts while improving to 9-for-11 in save chances. The 28-year-old Alvarado continues to split closing duties with Craig Kimbrel in Philadelphia. The left-hander's ERA is down to 1.88 with a 1.25 WHIP with 59 strikeouts across 38.1 innings this season.

Alvarado yielded a run on two hits and two walks in one inning Friday. He struck out one and earned a save against the Cardinals.

Alvarado coughed up an RBI single to Tommy Edman with two outs in the ninth inning but struck out Lars Nootbaar with the bases jammed to close out the 5-4 victory. Alvarado has allowed two earned runs on five hits and five walks over his last five frames, pushing his season ERA to 1.98 through 36.1 innings. He picked up his first save since Sep. 4 and has now converted eight of his 10 chances.

Alvarado earned a save against the Padres on Monday, issuing two walks and striking out two batters over a hitless and scoreless inning.

The Phillies built a big early lead before the Padres stormed back in the sixth and seventh frames. In the eighth, usual closer Craig Kimbrel was brought in to face the top of San Diego's order and restored order with a scoreless frame. Alvarado followed in the ninth and quickly put himself in trouble with two straight walks before righting the ship and retiring the next three batters he faced, two by strikeout. The save was Alvarado's seventh of the season but his first since he returned from a lengthy stay on the injured list Aug. 22. Kimbrel has emerged as a steady ninth-inning option for Philadelphia and should maintain that role most days moving forward, though as Monday highlighted, Alvarado could still sneak in a save chance every once in a while.

The Phillies reinstated Alvarado (elbow) from the 15-day injured list Monday.

Alvarado should slide into a late-inning role for the Phillies while he rejoins the club for the first time since the All-Star break, though he likely won't factor into the equation for saves with Craig Kimbrel having seemingly solidified himself as the team's clear top closing option at this stage. Prior to being activated, the southpaw looked sharp over his two rehab appearances at Triple-A Lehigh Valley, tossing a pair of scoreless innings while striking out three and allowing two baserunners.

Alvarado (elbow/hand) is expected to pitch Tuesday for Triple-A Lehigh Valley, Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

He faced live hitters Friday and is ready to get back into game action. Alvarado recently dealt with cramping in both hands in addition to the elbow inflammation that initially landed him on the shelf. Craig Kimbrel has three saves and two blown saves in his last 10 appearances, but he has generally been pretty excellent this season, so Alvarado may not get many save opportunities once he is activated.

Alvarado's (elbow/hand) live batting practice got rained out Thursday, so he will face hitters Friday, Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Alvarado has been dealing the cramping in both of his hands but had already delayed his rehab start earlier in the week. That was for precautionary concerns while Thursday's delay comes due to weather. According to manager Rob Thomson, Alvarado could begin his rehab assignment Tuesday with Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Alvarado (elbow/hand) will throw another bullpen session Thursday rather than beginning a minor-league rehab assignment, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports.

Alvarado has been dealing with cramping in both of his hands, so the Phillies will delay his rehab stint a couple of days to make sure that it doesn't become a lingering issue. He is recovered from the bout of elbow inflammation that initially sent him to the injured list in early July, and this shouldn't be too much of a setback.

Alvarado (elbow) is expected to begin a rehab assignment Thursday, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports.

Alvarado has made good progress since landing on the injured list in early July with an elbow issue, and he is nearly ready for the final step in his recovery.

Alvarado (elbow) threw a successful 25-pitch bullpen session Tuesday, Alex Coffey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Alvarado said after the workout that he will throw one more bullpen session before taking the next step in his recovery. The lefty reliever has been sidelined since early July because of elbow inflammation but should be able to return to the Phillies' bullpen sometime in August.

Alvarado (elbow) tossed a bullpen session Saturday and is scheduled to throw off the mound again Tuesday in Miami, Corey Seidman of NBC Sports Philadelphia reports.

Alvarado is continuing his throwing progression as he works his way back from left elbow inflammation, an injury that has kept him on the shelf since July 9. If he responds well to his upcoming bullpen session, Alvarado could be cleared to face hitters in live batting practice by the end of the week. He may be tracking toward a return from the 15-day injured list during the second week of August.

Alvarado (elbow) played catch from 60 feet Wednesday, MLB.com reports.

Alvarado went on the injured list on July 9 with left elbow inflammation but has felt better since being given a cortisone shot. The reliever missed a month earlier this season with the same injury, but it's unclear at this point whether a similar timetable is expected.

The Phillies placed Alvarado on the 15-day injured list Sunday with left elbow inflammation.

The transaction is retroactive to Friday, meaning that in addition to Sunday's series finale in Miami, Alvarado will miss at least the Phillies' first two series coming out of the All-Star break. Alvarado boasts a tidy 1.38 ERA and has struck out 39 and gathered six saves over 26 innings, but his fantasy value had been trending down since he returned in early June from a stint on the IL, also the result of an inflamed elbow. In the month since Alvarado returned to the Phillies' 26-man active roster, Craig Kimbrel has re-established himself as the unquestioned top option for saves out of the bullpen.

Alvarado picked up the save Wednesday against Arizona, allowing one walk while striking out one over a scoreless inning. He did not allow a hit.

Alvarado made his third appearance since being reinstated from the injured list last Friday, but Wednesday's outing was his first save chance since May 3. Craig Kimbrel worked the ninth, but the two figure to split save opportunities moving forward now that they're both healthy. Kimbrel is a perfect 9-for-9 as a closer and has an elite 41:13 K:BB across 28 appearances (26 innings) but sports a questionable 4.85 ERA, while Alvarado is 6-for-8 as a closer but boasts better overall numbers (1.04 ERA, 0.87 WHIP and 29:4 K:BB across 17.1 innings).

Alvarado (elbow) was reinstated from the 15-day injured list and called up from Double-A Reading on Friday.

Alvarado will return to the big-league roster after missing just under one month while nursing a left elbow injury. The 28-year-old appeared in two games with Reading, allowing two runs on four hits while striking out a batter over two innings. The left-hander has produced a sparkling 0.63 ERA and 0.63 WHIP with 24 punchouts over 14.1 frames in 14 appearances with the Phillies in 2023 and he'll likely step back into a high-leverage role in the bullpen. In a corresponding move, right-hander Connor Brogdon was optioned to Triple-A on Friday.

Alvarado (elbow) will be activated from the injured list Friday, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports.

Alvarado is again ready to be a high-leverage contributor out of the Phillies' bullpen following a four-week recovery from left elbow inflammation. He had become manager Rob Thomson's primary closer prior to the IL stint and should quickly work his way back toward the top of the saves mix. When healthy this year, Alvarado has delivered a terrific 0.63 ERA with 24 strikeouts and no walks in 14.1 innings.

Alvarado (elbow) will make what is expected to be his final rehab appearance Tuesday with Double-A Reading, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports.

As long as Alvarado comes out of that outing with no issues, he will be activated ahead of the Phillies' weekend series against the Dodgers. The left-handed reliever to this point has made one scoreless rehab appearance as he works his way back from elbow inflammation. Alvarado had emerged as manager Rob Thomson's go-to closer before getting hurt and should be thrown right back into that mix once activated, although Craig Kimbrel has pitched well in the role since Alvarado went down.

Alvarado (elbow) is expected to continue his minor-league rehab assignment Tuesday with Double-A Reading before being activated from the 15-day injured list, Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

The veteran left-hander made his first rehab outing Saturday with Triple-A Lehigh Valley and fired a scoreless inning. Alvarado will require at least one more appearance in the minors, and if all goes well Tuesday he could be back with the Phillies by the end of the week.

Alvarado (elbow) will begin a minor-league rehab assignment Saturday with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, Corey Seidman of NBC Sports Philadelphia reports.

Alvarado is expected to make two appearances on the farm before returning to the Phillies' bullpen around the middle of next week. The 28-year-old left-hander had converted five saves prior to going on the injured list May 10 due to elbow inflammation and should eventually cycle back into a share of the closer role. He boasts a 0.63 ERA with 24 strikeouts and no walks in 14.1 innings for the year.

Alvarado (elbow) threw 13 pitches of live batting practice Wednesday, Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

As long as there are no complications in the aftermath of the workout, Alvarado could be cleared to head out on a minor-league rehab assignment before the end of the week. He had pitched to a stellar 0.63 ERA and 24:0 K:BB across 14.1 innings this year for the Phillies prior to going on the injured list May 10 with left elbow inflammation. He should be in the mix for saves again once he returns to full health.

Alvarado (elbow) is scheduled to throw live batting practice Wednesday, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports.

Alvarado could be cleared to head out on a minor-league rehab assignment if Wednesday's workout goes smoothly. The hard-throwing left-hander was sporting a 0.63 ERA with 24 strikeouts and zero walks through 14.1 innings this year for the Phillies when he landed on the injured list May 10 due to elbow inflammation. He had also earned five saves and could eventually challenge Craig Kimbrel for a chunk of the team's ninth-inning opportunities.

Alvarado (elbow) played catch on flat ground but did not throw a bullpen session Saturday as scheduled, Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports.

Manager Rob Thomson said Alvarado was hitting 98 mph in a bullpen session earlier this week and probably pushed himself too hard. However, despite the delay to Alvarado's return to mound work, the skipper insists this isn't a setback. With that, it sounds like the lefty still has a chance to advance to live batting practice next week.

Alvarado (elbow) will throw another bullpen session Saturday, Corey Seidman of NBC Sports Philadelphia reports.

If all goes according to plan, Alvarado will move to throwing live batting practice next week during the Phillies' series against the Mets. From there, the 28-year-old closer would likely require a rehab assignment before returning to Philly's bullpen. Alvarado has been on the injured list since May 10 with left elbow inflammation.

Alvarado (elbow) will throw a bullpen session Wednesday if Monday's flat-ground session goes well, Alex Coffey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

He'll need an addition bullpen session after that before progressing to facing hitters and eventually going out on a rehab assignment. It's not clear at this point how many rehab appearances Alvarado might require. He's trending in the right direction, but the fireballing reliever still has a ways to go.

Alvarado (elbow) played catch on flat ground Friday, Corey Seidman of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Alvarado is just throwing from a distance of 75 feet for now and will continue that for a couple of days before then ramping up toward a return to mound work. The lefty reliever has been sidelined since May 10 due to elbow inflammation. He is tracking toward being ready for activation around the end of the month.

Alvarado (elbow) is expected to begin a throwing program in the early part of the week, MLB.com reports.

Alvarado isn't traveling with the Phillies while the team wraps up its six-game road trip with a three-game set in San Francisco to begin the week, but he looks to have received the green light to resume playing catch back in Philadelphia. The left-hander was placed on the 15-day injured list last Wednesday due to elbow inflammation and is first eligible to return May 23. Assuming the Phillies' closer endures no setbacks as he initiates his throwing program, he could be on track for activation in close to the minimum 15 days.

The MRI on Alvarado's left elbow came back negative, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports.

Alvarado is dealing with inflammation which forced him to the injured list earlier Wednesday, but thankfully he does not have any structural damage. He will be shut down for a few days before being re-evaluated. Gelb writes that the Phillies plan to "take it slow" with the reliever, so it seems likely to be longer than a minimum stay on the IL. Craig Kimbrel is the favorite to close for Philadelphia while Alvarado is shelved.

Alvarado underwent an MRI on his ailing left elbow which is being reviewed Wednesday, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports.

Alvarado went on the injured list Wednesday with what the Phillies called left elbow inflammation, but more clarity on his condition is expected to be available soon. Manager Rob Thomson admitted that he's "a little concerned, for sure," about his closer. Alvarado has been arguably the best reliever in baseball this season with a 1.88 ERA and 24:0 K:BB over 14.1 innings. Craig Kimbrel looks like the top candidate to close for the Phillies while Alvarado is away, with perhaps Seranthony Dominguez, Gregory Soto and Matt Strahm also in the mix.

Alvarado was placed on the 15-day injured list Wednesday with left elbow inflammation.

Alvarado was unavailable to pitch Tuesday versus the Blue Jays due to left wrist tightness and that uncomfortability has now reportedly moved into his elbow. Considering the injury is on his pitching arm, it's hard to predict the left-hander's availability moving forward. The move to the IL was made retroactive to Monday (May 8), so if he's able to avoid a prolonged absence, Alvarado would be eligible to return May 23. Craig Kimbrel could handle the lion's share of the ninth inning opportunities while Alvarado is out.

Alvarado was unavailable to pitch Tuesday against Toronto because of tightness in his left wrist, Zolecki reports.

Alvarado mentioned that he's "unconcerned" about the injury, and he hopes to pitch during Wednesday's game against the Blue Jays if needed. The left-hander should be considered day-to-day, and even if he doesn't pitch Wednesday this doesn't appear to be a long-term issue.

Alvarado picked up the save in Friday's 3-1 win over the Astros. He struck out two over a perfect inning.

Alvarado has been one of the best closers in the league to start off the year. The southpaw has allowed just one earned run over 12.1 innings pitched, and his five saves are tied for fifth in MLB. Additionally, the former Ray currently sports a stellar 0.49 WHIP.

Alvarado picked up the save in Friday's 3-1 victory over the Astros. He didn't allow a baserunner while striking out two over one inning.

Alvarado has been lights out this season. He struck out two more hitters in the ninth to bring his season total to 24 in just 12.1 innings. The flame throwing lefty leads the Phillies with five saves, all of which have come since April 19.

Alvarado picked up the save during Wednesday's 6-5 win over Seattle. He allowed one hit while striking out two over one inning.

Alvarado showed off his strikeout ability once again Wednesday, getting both Jose Caballero and Julio Rodriguez to go down swinging to close out the game. Through 11.1 innings, Alvarado has struck out 22 batters without a walk while only allowing one run. As long as he remains the Phillies closer, expect Alvarado to hold strong fantasy value.

Alvarado picked up the save during Friday's 4-3 win over the Rockies, striking out zero over a perfect ninth inning.

Alvarado entered with a one-run lead and retired Charlie Blackmon, C.J. Cron and Ryan McMahon in order. The left-hander has put together three consecutive successful save chances after blowing his first opportunity and appears to be separating himself as the top closing option over Seranthony Dominguez and Craig Kimbrel, who've both been relegated to hold situations in their recent appearances.

Alvarado picked up the save during Wednesday's 5-2 win over the White Sox, posting a perfect ninth inning with zero strikeouts.

Alvarado entered in the ninth with a three-run lead and proceeded to retire Eloy Jimenez, Yasmani Grandal and Jake Burger in order. It was the second straight save in as many days for the left-hander after he blew his first chance against the Marlins on April 12. The Phillies continue to utilize a bevy on late-inning relievers as closers, with Alvarado, Seranthony Dominguez and Craig Kimbrel all getting chances.

Alvarado struck out two in a perfect ninth inning during the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the White Sox, recording his first save of the season in a 7-4 win.

The Phillies' bullpen was outstanding in the matinee, as in turn Gregory Soto, Craig Kimbrel, Seranthony Dominguez and Alvarado each fanned two in a perfect inning of relief. Alvarado has been the best of the high-leverage quartet in the early going though, striking out multiple batters in seven straight appearances and posting a stunning 18:0 K:BB through 7.1 innings to go along with his 1.23 ERA and three holds. No Philadelphia hurler has more than one save yet, but the southpaw appears to be staking a claim to being the team's relief ace, if not its full-time closer.

Alvarado signed a three-year contract extension with a club option for 2026 with the Phillies on Friday.

Alvarado and the Phillies avoided arbitration with a one-year deal last week, but this new contract wipes that out and tacks on two, and possibly three, more years. The big left-hander had been slated to hit free agency next offseason. Alvarado put up a 3.18 ERA and 81:24 K:BB over 51 innings for Philly in 2022, earning two saves along the way. He'll be in the late-inning mix for them again in 2023.

Alvarado agreed to a one-year contract with the Phillies on Friday to avoid arbitration.

The financials aren't known at this time, but Alvarado filed at $3.7 million and was offered $3.2 million by the Phillies when figures were exchanged last month. Presumably, the two sides met somewhere in the middle. Alvarado was actually optioned to the minors after a rough start for the Phils last season but was dominant after returning with a 1.66 ERA and 64:14 K:BB over 38 innings covering his last 42 appearances.

Alvarado earned the save against the Padres on Tuesday, allowing zero hits and one walk in a scoreless inning during the 2-0 victory.

After getting the first out of the ninth, Alvarado found himself in trouble following a walk and an error, but he managed to shut down Manny Machado and Josh Bell to win Game 1 for the Phillies. The 27-year-old amassed only two saves in the regular season while being used mainly as a middle-relief pitcher, but he was called on in the ninth Tuesday night and got the job done. The closer role has been a revolving door for the Phillies in recent games, so look to see if Alvarado continues as a closer in the NLCS or if he reverts back to a middle-relief role.

Alvarado earned a save against Atlanta on Thursday, allowing one hit and striking out two batters over 1.1 scoreless innings.

Alvarado entered in the eighth inning with two outs and the tying run on first base. He retired Matt Olson to end the frame, then stayed in for the ninth despite the fact that No. 1 closer David Robertson was warming in the bullpen. Alvarado took advantage of the opportunity by working around a two-out single to notch his second save of the campaign. Robertson and Seranthony Dominguez have struggled in September, so it's possible that Alvarado could get some more save chances moving forward.

Alvarado (3-2) took the loss in Saturday's 6-2 loss against the Cubs, allowing five runs (three earned) on two hits while striking out one and walking none over one-third of an inning.

Alvarado was called in to pitch in the 10th inning of a tied game, but took the loss after allowing four runs to cross the plate on a fielders choice, a single and a fielding error. His ERA ballooned from 4.39 to 5.33 after the contest, although he has a 3.86 ERA in July.

Alvarado recorded two outs, including one strikeout, and earned a save against Miami on Sunday.

Alvarado entered the game with two on and one out in the ninth inning and needed just eight pitches to extinguish the threat from the Marlins. It was his first save opportunity since blowing a chance against the Nationals on June 17. The 27-year-old is now sporting a 41:18 K:BB with a 4.39 ERA through 26.2 frames.

Alvarado (1-1) blew the save but got the win in the second half of Friday's doubleheader against the Nationals, allowing an unearned run in 1.1 innings of work while striking out one and giving up two walks and a hit.

The Phillies used both Seranthony Dominguez and Brad Hand in Game 1 of the doubleheader, so they were down to the less preferred members of their new closer committee in Game 2. After Andrew Bellatti retired two of the first three batters in the ninth inning, Alvarado was tasked with retiring Juan Soto to finish the game. He wound up walking him, as he's done against 17.1 percent of the batters he's faced this season, but he appeared to have gotten the job done by getting Nelson Cruz to ground out before Didi Gregorius threw the ball away. Alvarado got out of the inning without further damage and allowed only the ghost runner to score in the bottom of the 10th, which was good enough for a win after the Phillies had scored twice in the top of the frame.

Alvarado was recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Sunday.

Alvarado was demoted in late May after posting a 7.62 ERA and 15.4 percent walk rate to start the season, but four scoreless minor-league appearances in which he walked just a single batter was apparently all the Phillies needed to see to bring him back. Cristopher Sanchez was optioned in a corresponding move.

Alvarado was optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Friday.

Alvarado's control issues finally reached a tipping point for the Phillies, so he'll exit the active roster to clear space for Friday's starter Bailey Falter. Alvarado's 15.4 percent walk rate is actually a notable improvement on his 18.7 percent mark from last year, but it's still nowhere near good enough and contributed heavily to his 7.62 ERA. His stuff is good enough that he could add to his 20 career saves at some point down the line if he could just figure out his command, but it doesn't look like such an improvement is coming any time soon.

Alvarado (neck) will be on the Phillies' Opening Day roster, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports.

Alvarado has been limited to a single Grapefruit League appearance due to a neck issue. Previous reports indicated the left was likely to open the season on the injured list, but he's evidently convinced the Phillies that he's ready to go. The team will use a 10-man bullpen to start the year, so they can avoid using him in the first few games if he still needs time to finish building up.

Alvarado (neck) is scheduled to make a relief appearance in Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Tigers, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports.

Though Alvarado has been cleared for game action and likely won't require much buildup time as a reliever who typically doesn't work more than one inning, he's not a lock to make the Phillies' Opening Day roster since the neck issue has kept him out for the majority of the spring. As Gelb notes, the Phillies' plans for Alvarado will likely become apparent based on where his next outing comes Tuesday or Wednesday. If Alvarado pitches in one of the team's final two exhibition games, it would likely signal that he's on track for the Opening Day roster, whereas a simulated game on Tuesday or Wednesday would hint that the Phillies are planning to stash him on the injured list to begin the season.

Alvarado (neck) has been playing catch, but the Phillies are skeptical that he'll be able to avoid the injured list to start the season, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports.

Alvarado's neck issue may not be a long-term problem, but the fact that he's still merely playing catch with Opening Day just 10 days away suggests a trip to the injured list is likely. Once healthy, he'll compete with Brad Hand to be the top lefty in the Philadelphia bullpen, a role that could come with at least the occasional save.

Alvarado has not made an appearance this spring due to "a little neck issue", manager Joe Girardi revealed on Saturday.

Alvarado was shut down from throwing for three days beginning on Thursday as he looks to recover from the issue. The reliever hopes to be ready for the start of the season, but may be delayed if the issue lingers.

Alvarado and the Phillies agreed Tuesday to a one-year, $1.9 million contract to avoid arbitration, Alex Coffey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Along with first baseman Rhys Hoskins ($7.7 million), Alvarado was one of two of the Phillies' three arbitration-eligible players who finalized a one-year deal with the team prior to Tuesday's filing deadline. The reliever will be back with the Phillies for a second season after turning in a 4.20 ERA and 1.60 WHIP while striking out 68 batters and gathering five saves over 55.2 innings in 2021.

Alvarado gave up a hit and a walk in a scoreless ninth inning Monday to record his fifth save of the season in a 7-4 win over the Nationals. He struck out two.

Ian Kennedy had the night off after picking up his fifth save as a Phillie on Sunday, so Alvarado got the call to close out this one. The southpaw hasn't been scored upon in six straight appearances dating back to Aug. 3, and his recent stint on the IL due to shoulder inflammation didn't derail his momentum, but his lack of control (career-worst 19.7 percent walk rate on the season) makes him volatile at the best of times.

The Phillies reinstated Alvarado (shoulder) from the 10-day injured list Thursday, Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports.

Alvarado, who had been on the shelf since Aug. 11 with an inflamed left shoulder, was cleared to rejoin the Phillies after he checked out fine during a one-inning rehab appearance Tuesday for Triple-A Lehigh Valley. Given the brevity of his absence, the 26-year-old should quickly recapture a key late-inning role for Philadelphia.

Alvarado (shoulder) made his first rehab appearance for Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Tuesday, tossing a no-hit inning while striking out one and walking one.

Alvarado was placed on the 10-day injured list Aug. 11 with left shoulder inflammation, but he appears to be on the cusp of a return. He may need only one or two more tune-up appearances at Triple-A before rejoining the Philadelphia bullpen.

Alvarado (shoulder) threw a bullpen session Friday, Daniel Guerrero of MLB.com reports.

Alvarado has been dealing with a left shoulder impingement for a week and a half, but he felt good after Friday's bullpen session. The southpaw will throw another bullpen Sunday and will be re-evaluated afterward.

Alvarado was placed on the 10-day injured list Wednesday with a left shoulder impingement.

Alvarado hasn't pitched since delivering a scoreless frame Aug. 7, so it appears he's been dealing with the injury for a few days. It's unclear how long the left-hander is expected to be sidelined, but he'll be eligible from the injured list Aug. 18.

Alvarado earned the save against the Nationals on Tuesday after tossing a perfect inning that included a pair of strikeouts.

The left-hander turned in an effective outing, sending Tres Barrera and Riley Adams down on strikes while protecting a one-run lead. The Phillies have had their share of ninth-inning woes this season, including a span with Alvarado being named closer last month. Recently-traded Ian Kennedy is expected to get the bulk of save opportunities moving forward. On the year, Alvarado has compiled a 4.58 ERA and 1.70 WHIP with four saves.

Alvarado earned a four-out save Tuesday against the Marlins. He allowed two runs on two hits and a walk while striking out one.

Alvarado came into the eighth inning with two outs and a 4-0 lead and immediately issued a free pass. He then allowed an inherited runner to score on a wild pitch. The ninth inning didn't start off much better for the left-hander, who surrendered a leadoff single to Jesus Aguilar followed by a two-run homer to Adam Duvall. Despite recently being named the new closer by Joe Girardi, Alvarado has a lot more to prove if he's going to hold onto the role.

Manager Joe Girardi said Friday that Alvarado has overtaken Hector Neris as Philadelphia's top option for saves, Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Alvarado has two saves this season with his last one coming May 5, but he'll receive an opportunity as the Phillies' closer since Neris was unable to convert three of his past four save chances. Alvarado has also recorded nine holds while posting a 2.70 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 36:23 K:BB across 26.2 innings. The right-hander's 19.7 percent walk rate, which would be a career-worst mark, will be his largest hurdle for securing the closer's gig long term.

Alvarado walked one and struck out two in a scoreless ninth inning during Wednesday's 5-4 win over the Brewers.

Hector Neris tossed 40 pitches the night before, opening the door for Alvarado to get another save chance, and the lefty got the job done. He wasn't exactly sharp, throwing only nine of 17 pitches for strikes, but as per usual Alvarado was overpowering when he was around the zone, topping out at 99.8 mph. He sports a 4.00 ERA and 15:6 K:BB through nine innings, racking up two wins and two holds through 11 appearances in addition to his saves.

Alvarado's suspension was reduced to two games upon appeal and will be served starting Monday, source reports.

Alvarado was handed what was originally a three-game ban after his overly animated celebration of a strikeout Thursday against the Mets caused both benches to clear. The Phillies will now be without their top lefty for two games.

Alvarado was handed a three-game suspension Sunday but will continue to play while appealing the ban, Jim Salisbury of NBC Sports Philadelphia reports.

The 25-year-old received the suspension for his role in Thursday's benches-clearing incident with the Mets. He was the only player to be suspended for either team, though Dominic Smith and Miguel Castro were fined on the New York side. Alvarado will remain available until his appeal is heard.

Alvarado returned from the COVID-19 injured list Monday.

Alvarado spent a week away from the team, though it's unclear if he tested positive for the virus himself. He should be a key piece for the Phillies upon his return, as he owns a 1.59 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 10:2 K:BB through 5.2 innings this season.

Alvarado was placed on the injured list Monday for an unspecified reason, Matt Breen of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

The Phillies placed two coaches in the league's health and safety protocols, and Alvarado was one of three Phillies to land on the injured list. The fact that the team didn't provide a reason for Alvarado's placement on the IL suggests that he could be on the COVID-19 injured list. If that's the case, Alvarado will be eligible to return once he clears the league's health and safety protocols as long as he doesn't test positive for the virus. Alvarado has posted a 1.59 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 10:2 K:BB in 5.2 innings this year.

Alvarado (2-0) pitched a clean eighth inning while also walking a batter as he was awarded his second win of the season in a 7-6 victory over the Braves on Sunday.

Alvarado led off the eighth by walking Travis D'Arnaud but was able to retire the next three hitters and get out of the inning without much sweat. He earned his second win of the year after the Phillies were able to tack on the go-ahead run in the ninth, but it was the first outing of the season that the 25-year-old flame thrower failed to record a strikeout. Alvarado has allowed one run in 4.2 innings and boasts a 9:1 K:BB as he continues to assert himself as one of the game's most dominant relievers.

Alvarado collected his first save of the season Monday, giving up a run on three hits while striking out two in the ninth inning of a 5-3 win over the Mets.

With Hector Neris having pitched three times in the last four days, it was Alvarado's turn to protect a late lead. The lefty made things interesting by giving up three straight two-out singles before Pete Alonso came within about five feet of an opposite-field homer, but it still went into the books as Alvarado's first save with his new club. It's noteworthy that he got the call over Archie Bradley in a save situation, a decision which may have been prompted by lefty Brandon Nimmo leading off the ninth for the Mets, but Neris remains the primary closing option for the Phillies.

Alvarado (1-0) tossed a scoreless inning and struck out two in Sunday's win against the Braves.

Alvarado tossed an eventful inning in his previous appearance -- allowing three baserunners and fanning three of the six batters he faced -- but looked far more dominant this time around, tossing eight of his 10 pitches for strikes and making quick work of the eighth inning. He's not expected to look this dominant on a regular basis, but this was an encouraging outing for the talented -- yet inconsistent -- lefty.

Alvarado allowed three baserunners (a walk, a single and a hit by pitch) but didn't allow a run in his inning of work Thursday against Atlanta, striking out three.

The outing gave Phillies fans the full Jose Alvarado experience in his first game with his new club. He struck out half the batters he faced and only allowed one out of six to make contact, but he also loaded the bases. A steady diet of both walks and strikeouts should be expected from the lefty this year, as he owns a career 28.1 percent strikeout rate and a 12.3 percent walk rate.

Phillies manager Joe Girardi said Wednesday that Alvarado would open the season as one of the top setup men for closer Hector Neris, Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports.

Though Neris should be in line to receive the bulk of the save chances to begin the season, Alvarado -- the lone southpaw in the bullpen -- could factor into the ninth-inning mix when the Phillies face lefty-heavy lineups. Alvarado has missed extended time in both of his final two seasons with the Rays due to arm injuries, but he was healthy and effective this spring, striking out 13 while holding opposing hitters to a .167 average over 8.1 innings.

Alvarado will be the only left-hander in the Phillies' Opening Day bullpen after JoJo Romero was optioned Sunday, Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports.

Alvarado pitched himself into the closer mix alongside Hector Neris and Archie Bradley this spring, showing significantly improved conditioning and triple-digit heat. As the lone lefty in that trio, Alvarado would figure to earn save chances when opposing left-handers are due up in the ninth inning should the Phillies adopt a committee approach, but manager Joe Girardi has expressed a preference for a traditional closer. It may be tough for Girardi to give Alvarado the role, as that would leave him without any southpaws to deploy prior to the ninth inning.

Alvarado has pitched himself into the closer mix for the Phillies this spring, Matt Breen of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Alvarado was understandably cheap for the Phillies to acquire this winter following a pair of seasons in which he struggled to a 5.08 ERA while battling injuries. Conditioning had become a significant problem for the lefty, but he's dropped nearly 50 pounds and now looks as electric as ever. He struck out the side Saturday against the Blue Jays, throwing nine of his 16 pitches 99 mph or faster. He has 15 saves on his resume already and seemingly has a legitimate chance to beat out Hector Neris and Archie Bradley for the role this season, though it's still too early to call him the favorite.

Alvarado has looked good to start camp, retiring all nine batter's he's faced thus far while striking out three.

The Phillies acquired Alvarado fairly cheaply from the Rays back in December, as he's posted a 5.08 ERA over the last two seasons while battling injuries. He's been in vintage form so far this spring, however, with his fastball touching triple digits and his conditioning looking much improved. His recent struggles mean he probably begins the year behind Archie Bradley and Hector Neris on the closer depth chart, but he could certainly add to his 15 career saves if he carries his spring success into the regular season. If the Phillies adopt a committee approach at any point this year, he should have a strong chance of picking up saves when opposing lefties are due up in the ninth inning, as both Bradley and Neris throw right-handed.

Alvarado avoided arbitration by signing a one-year, $1 million contract Friday, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports.

The Phillies will be hoping Alvarado can plug a hole in their historically leaky bullpen this season. He's been a high-leverage reliever at times in the past, but he's since struggled through a pair of injury-filled campaigns, posting a 5.08 ERA and a 17.3 percent walk rate over that stretch.

Alvarado was traded from the Rays to the Phillies on Tuesday as part of a three-team deal which also includes the Dodgers, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

The 25-year-old lefty joins a team desperately in need of bullpen help, and the good version of Alvarado can certainly provide that, as his 2.39 ERA back in 2018 suggests. Over the last two injury-filled seasons, however, he's struggled to a 5.08 ERA in just 39 total frames, with a poor 17.3 percent walk rate offsetting a 27.2 percent strikeout rate. A full bounceback could see Alvarado picking up saves at some point for his new team, with only the inconsistent Hector Neris standing as a real obstacle, but there's every chance his injuries and control problems continue, making him at best a low-leverage option.

Alvarado will not be a part of the Rays' World Series roster, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Alvarado returned from a shoulder injury to play a part in the ALCS, striking out four and walking three over 1.2 scoreless innings. Ryan Sherriff will replace him as a left-handed option out of the pen.

The Rays activated Alvarado (shoulder) from the 45-day injured list Sunday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Tampa Bay designated Oliver Drake for assignment to clear a spot on the 40-man roster for Alvarado, while outfielder Brett Phillips was optioned to the Rays' taxi squad to clear a spot on the 28-man active roster. Alvarado hasn't appeared in game for the Rays since Aug. 14 due to the shoulder injury, so manager Kevin Cash could prefer to break the 25-year-old in in lower-leverage spots during Tampa Bay's ALCS matchup with the Astros.

Alvarado (shoulder) will not be a part of the Rays' wild-card roster.

Alvarado has been out with a shoulder injury since mid-August. He's been trending in the right direction lately, throwing live batting practice multiple times, but he's evidently at least three more days away from being cleared for game action.

Alvarado (shoulder) is scheduled to throw to Ji-Man Choi (hamstring) and Yandy Diaz (hamstring) in a simulated game setting Monday, the Associated Press reports.

The left-hander did the same Saturday and reportedly looked very good in terms of velocity, as he continues to ramp up for a possible return early in the postseason. Alvarado's chances of suiting up at some point in the upcoming Wild Card Series against the Blue Jays will likely become clearer after Monday's activity.

Alvarado (shoulder) threw a live batting practice Saturday and remains a candidate to return at some point in the postseason, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports.

The left-hander's availability will naturally be heavily dependent on the health of his shoulder, but it will also be contingent on his ability to locate consistently and command the zone. Alvarado hasn't seen game action since Aug. 14, so rust will certainly be a concern if he is eventually activated. "Velo was up right where we like it. I think he was at 96-97 [mph]," manager Kevin Cash said. "Landed a couple of breaking balls. He's another one to make a decision on. Just get his comfort from a health standpoint. He certainly appears like he's healthy."

Alvarado (shoulder) is scheduled to throw a live batting practice session Saturday, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports.

Alvarado doesn't look like he'll be activated from the 45-day injured list prior to Sunday's regular-season finale versus the Phillies, but he could be a candidate to earn a spot on Tampa Bay's postseason roster. The lefty hasn't pitched for the big club since Aug. 14, but before imploding in that appearance and subsequently landing on the IL with shoulder inflammation, Alvarado had posted a 2.16 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and an 11:4 K:BB over 8.1 innings in his first eight appearances of 2020.

Alvarado (shoulder) threw a 26-pitch bullpen session Monday and will throw a simulated game Thursday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Alvarado remains on the 45-day injured list with left shoulder inflammation and won't be eligible to return before the start of the playoffs. It appears that he has a chance to do that, though the Rays won't be sure until they see how his shoulder holds up this week.

Alvarado (shoulder) threw again at Tropicana Field on Monday and could face live hitters sometime this week after manager Kevin Cash described the southpaw as "making really good progress", Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports.

The big left-hander will first likely utilize at least one bullpen session as a bridge to facing some of his teammates, but the fact he's set to possibly take multiple steps forward in his recovery in coming days is certainly noteworthy. If he continues without setbacks, Alvarado could be a factor for the Rays in a potential postseason run.

Alvarado (shoulder) was playing catch at Tropicana Field on Friday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

The 25-year-old was shut down from throwing Aug. 19, but he's returned been cleared to resume playing catch. Alvarado was shifted to the 45-day injured list in early September and won't be able to return before the end of the regular season, but he could rejoin the team for a potential playoff run.

Alvarado (shoulder) was transferred to the 45-day injured list Friday, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports.

The move ends Alvarado's regular season, as his 45 days will expire just after the end of the campaign, though he could still pitch in the playoffs. The lefty joins teammates Yonny Chirinos (elbow), Chaz Roe (elbow), Jalen Beeks (elbow), Andrew Kittredge (elbow) and Chaz Roe (elbow) on the 45-day injured list, though the Rays did get Nick Anderson back from his forearm injury Friday.

Alvarado (shoulder) saw a doctor in New York on Monday and will be shut down from throwing for 10-to-14 days, the Associated Press reports.

The burly southpaw was placed on the injured list Saturday with shoulder inflammation, and it appears he's headed for a much longer stay on it than the minimum 10 days. Alvarado looked out of sorts while trying to apparently pitch through the injury in his appearance Saturday, when he allowed four earned runs over two-third of an inning to the Blue Jays.

Alvarado hit the 10-day injured list with left shoulder inflammation Saturday, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports.

The injury certainly could have contributed to Alvarado's awful outing Saturday against the Blue Jays, in which he allowed four runs while recording just two outs. It's unclear how much time he's expected to miss. Aaron Slegers was recalled in a corresponding move.

The Rays reinstated Alvarado (personal) from the paternity list Monday, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports.

Tampa Bay cleared a spot for Alvarado on the 28-man active roster by placing starting pitcher Charlie Morton (shoulder) on the 10-day injured list. Since Alvarado was only away from the Rays for the weekend series with the Yankees, he shouldn't need any time to ramp back up. He made six appearances out of the bullpen before heading to the paternity list, giving up two earned runs and striking out nine in 5.2 innings.

Alvarado (paternity) could return to the Rays as soon as Saturday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Alvarado was placed on the paternity list Friday but is evidently in line for quite a short absence. He's made six appearances for the Rays this season, striking out nine and walking three over 5.2 innings while allowing three runs (two earned).

Alvarado was placed on the paternity list Friday, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports.

Alvarado has allowed two runs on five hits with a 9:3 K:BB over 5.2 innings this season, but he'll step away from the team for the birth of his child. The 25-year-old will rejoin the club shortly after spending some time with his family.

Alvarado, who fired a scoreless ninth frame during which he recorded two strikeouts in an extra-inning win over the Blue Jays on Sunday, has opened the season with back-to-back scoreless appearances.

There was a fair amount of scrutiny on Alvarado heading into the campaign, as the left-hander was coming off a wildly inconsistent 2019 in which he often struggled with control. Despite some unsightly numbers in spring training this year, Alvarado had steadfastly maintained he was primed for a big year, and early returns have certainly been encouraging. The 25-year-old has yet to see a save chance, but he's now retired six batters on a relatively efficient 35 pitches while posting a 4:1 K:BB across his first pair of outings.

Alvarado, who struggled some with control in a simulated game Friday, was more effective during a Sunday appearance, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. "Better," said Rays manager Kevin Cash. "His last outing that he had he was fine, but he just wasn't filling up the strike zone like he's capable of. We put in an emphasis to fill it up, fill up the zone with the fastball, because as soon as he does that, then those 55-foot breaking balls [come] -- which catchers can't stand but hitters swing at. So you don't

Alvarado has been talking up his readiness and enthusiasm for the coming season since back in training camp, but the on-field results haven't always been commensurate to his ebullient mindset. Sunday, the left-hander, who sets up as a key late-inning component of the bullpen, managed to wiggle his way out of some minor trouble in his one inning by recording a strikeout of Brandon Lowe after putting on Nate Lowe and Manuel Margot via a walk and a single, respectively. Alvarado also mentioned to Cash he'd picked some things up with his mechanics during the outing that he plans to tweak, and both the Rays skipper and pitching coach Kyle Snyder remain encouraged with where the burly southpaw is "from a strike-throwing ability" at this point.

Alvarado, who struggled to a career-worst 4.80 ERA and 1.87 WHIP in 2019, feels highly confident he'll have a bounce-back year in 2020, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports. "When he's right, he's as dominant as anybody in the game," said manager Kevin Cash. "The thing that really sticks out right now is the strike-throwing and that he's landing his breaking ball. His delivery is really clean."

The hard-throwing southpaw was the picture of dominance in 2018 with a 2.39 ERA and 80 strikeouts across 64 innings, but a family matter in Venezuela last season led to a month-plus absence and essentially derailed Alvarado's campaign. However, the 25-year-old worked out diligently nearly every day during the recent shutdown, and he blew Cash away with his live batting practice session Saturday. Alvarado threw 15 pitches while facing Brandon Lowe and Willy Adames, and he reportedly landed all but one pitch in the strike zone according to Cash.

Alvarado got some long toss in at Tropicana Field on Monday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

The Rays had a large contingent of pitchers in for small-group informal workouts Monday, with Alvarado joining several bullpen mates in long-toss sessions in. With the 2020 season finally appearing to take shape late Monday night, Alvarado can now begin ramping up in earnest during what is likely to be considered a second spring training over the next three-plus weeks or so.

Alvarado is one of several Rays players with plenty to prove in 2020, Josh Tolentino of The Athletic reports.

The hard-throwing left-hander had a largely forgettable 2019 campaign that included a multi-week absence to tend to his ailing mother in Venezuela. The bulk of Alvarado's struggles came during the latter part of the season, as he posted a 9.95 ERA over his last 17 appearances. Alvarado did enter spring with a much clearer mind because he was able to move his parents to the United States during the offseason, and he certainly has the tools for a resurgence in the form of a 98 mph fastball, along with a cutter, sinker and curveball. However, it's worth noting the 25-year-old also endured a rocky Grapefruit League stint before play was paused, as he posted an 8.31 ERA and walked four batters over 4.1 innings across five appearances. He projects to primarily return to a setup role in an abbreviated 2020 season.

Alvarado is expected to work primarily as a setup man to begin the 2020 season with Nick Anderson "in line to get the bulk of the save opportunities" for the Rays, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Manager Kevin Cash hasn't formally named a closer nor outlined roles for the rest of the members of the bullpen, so the above quote is mostly informed speculation on Topkin's part. That said, Anderson was the Rays' most dominant reliever over the final two months last season and has enjoyed a solid spring, which likely keeps him ahead of Alvarado and Diego Castillo in the pecking order for saves. Alvarado could still see occasional use in save situations -- particularly against lefty-heavy lineups -- early on, but the Rays' main priority is likely just ensuring he stays healthy and re-emerges as a reliable late-inning arm coming off a rocky 2019 campaign. Alvarado went 4-for-4 in save chances and struck out 26 in his first 17.1 innings last season before melting down thereafter, finishing with a 4.80 ERA and 1.87 WHIP across 35 appearances while missing time due to oblique and elbow injuries in addition to a personal matter.

Alvarado fired a scoreless sixth inning during which he struck out the side and hit a batter in a Grapefruit League loss to the Braves on Saturday.

The reliever had endured a rough landing in his debut Wednesday against the Twins, retiring just one batter. That's what made Saturday's dominant outing, one of the few bright spots in a 12-0 loss for the Rays, a particularly welcome sight. Alvarado threw 18 pitches overall, with 11 finding the strike zone, and Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports the left-hander featured his cutter, sinker and curveball during his one frame. Alvarado's control was appreciably better against Atlanta as well, an important area of focus for him after he posted an 8.1 BB/9 across 35 appearances in 2019.

Alvarado made his first Grapefruit League appearance in Wednesday's loss to the Twins, allowing two earned runs on two hits and two walks over one-third of an inning. He struck out one.

Per Juan Toribio of MLB.com, Alvarado, who followed starter Blake Snell, threw 27 pitches, with only 12 of those getting into the strike zone. However, considering the outing served as Alvarado's first taste of game action since Aug. 24, the left-hander took the struggles in stride. "I got close to almost six months without seeing a hitter and not pitching in a game," Alvarado said. "I'm feeling great because I'm feeling the power in my arm. A little bit too quick and too early over my right arm, but everything is good. I'm feeling good."

Alvarado, who threw another successful bullpen session Sunday, is likely to make his spring debut Wednesday against the Twins, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports.

The 24-year-old southpaw threw approximately 20 pitches during the session and looked impressive doing so. Alvarado has been sharp in his throwing thus far this spring, leaving him poised for his likely debut versus Minnesota.

Alvarado threw an impressive bullpen session Friday, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports.

Manager Kevin Cash termed seeing Alvarado work as the most exciting part of his day Friday, a remark that underscores the reliever's value to the team's pitching arsenal. Alvarado endured a forgettable 2019, posting a career-high 4.80 ERA and 1.87 WHIP across 30 innings over 35 appearances. He ultimately finished the season on the 60-day injured list due to elbow inflammation, but an offseason of rest appears to have addressed that issue. Assuming good health, Alvarado should see heavy late-inning volume in 2020.

Alvarado (elbow) said that his injured elbow has fully recovered and he's ready to go for the start of spring training. Moreover, his mental state is a lot better now that he's moved his parents out of Venezuela and into the United States, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Tribune reports.

We often have to estimate about a player's mental state, and in the case of Alvarado, we know that he had to take time away from the team to tend to his mother last season and was never the same afterward. We'll have to take his physical health as an article of faith so far, but with the trade of Emilio Pagan, the opportunity for him to step into a more important role is present.

Alvarado (elbow) was shifted to the 60-day injured list Thursday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

This move frees up a roster spot for Kean Wong, who was promoted from Triple-A Durham on Thursday. Per Topkin, manager Kevin Cash said Alvarado hasn't suffered any setbacks, but his elbow apparently hasn't responded well to rest and there simply isn't enough time for the southpaw to return before the end of the season.

Alvarado's (elbow) MRI and doctor visit yielded fairly encouraging results, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Alvarado landed on the injured list with elbow inflammation Saturday. He was diagnosed with elbow tendinitis during his doctor visit and is resting for now. He's expected to return at some point this season, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports.

Alvarado was placed on the 10-day injured list with left elbow inflammation after Saturday's loss at Baltimore, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports.

Alvarado worked as the opener Saturday and allowed one run while recording only one out, and he threw only nine of his 24 pitches for strikes. According to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, the 24-year-old couldn't specifically describe the pain, but he'll return to Tampa Bay and undergo an MRI on Monday.