The Philadelphia Phillies are not having the season they have hoped for.
As we enter June, the Phillies have a record of 25-30.
They need to improve both at the plate and on the mound.
One spot that should be getting a key player back is in the bullpen.
The Phillies’ best relief pitcher this year has been left-hander Jose Alvarado.
But he has been on the injured list for the past few weeks with an elbow injury.
According to Matt Gelb, Alvarado is being sent on a Triple-A rehab assignment before returning to the majors.
José Alvarado will go to Triple-A Lehigh Valley for a rehab outing Saturday. Probably one more after that, then back in the majors.
— Matt Gelb (@MattGelb) June 1, 2023
This is great news for the Phillies as they were uncertain how long Alvarado would be out when the suffered the injury.
Anytime a pitcher has an elbow injury it is something to be wary about.
Alvarado was placed on the injured list on May 10 and now looks to return less than a month after the injury.
The addition of Alvarado back to the bullpen will give the Phillies a dominant lefty.
He has improved substantially this season especially when it comes to his command.
Alvarado has yet to walk a batter in his 14.1 innings.
Also, his 15.1 K/9 is a career-high for the lefty.
While he is not the primary closer for the Phillies he can do the job when called upon.
He has five saves this season and should remain an asset in that role.
It will be interesting to see how he is used over the rest of the season.
But, just getting him back in the bullpen should be a jolt for the Phillies.
NEXT: Phillies Insider Reveals Latest Jose Alvarado Update
