Phillies Reliever Jose Alvarado Done Season Left Forearm Strain

The Philadelphia Phillies have placed relief pitcher Jose Alvarado on the 15-day injured list with a left forearm strain, effectively ending his 2025 season. Alvarado, who was serving an 80-game suspension for testing positive for exogenous testosterone and was ineligible for postseason play, had a 3.81 ERA in 26 innings before the injury. Prior to his suspension, he was the Phillies' closer with a 2.70 ERA and seven saves, but after the suspension, Jhoan Duran took over the closer role and has performed strongly. Phillies manager Rob Thomson described Alvarado's injury as mild but sufficient to sideline him and indicated the team's focus is now on preparing him for the next season. To fill Alvarado's roster spot, the Phillies selected the contract of pitcher Walker Buehler from Triple-A and designated Matt Manning for assignment. Alvarado's contract includes a $9 million club option for 2026, leaving his future with the team uncertain as the Phillies aim to maintain their strong playoff positioning.