The Philadelphia Phillies need more from their bullpen if they are going to turn their season around.
According to Covers.com, the Phillies are 15th in MLB in bullpen ERA with 4.08.
They could certainly improve in that area and help appears to be on the way.
One of the best relief pitchers on the Phillies heading into the season was Jose Alvarado.
Through 14.1 innings this year, Alvarado has an ERA of 0.63.
He was the team’s best relief pitcher before the elbow injury he suffered.
But, it appears as if Alvarado is getting close to returning.
According to Todd Zolecki, Alvarado will throw a live BP session on Wednesday and then could be sent out for a rehab assignment.
Jose Alvarado will throw live BP tomorrow. If it goes well, Rob Thomson said his next step could be a rehab assignment.
— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) May 30, 2023
Alvarado has always had command issues in the past.
But it appears he has put those behind him this season.
In the 14.1 innings he has pitched, he has not walked one batter.
He is the most dominant lefty in the Phillies bullpen and they need him back as soon as possible.
There is no question that the Phillies season has not gone as many have hoped.
They have a record of 25-29 and find themselves in fourth place in the NL East.
For them to turn their season around they need to stay healthy and start playing up to their capabilities.
Offseason signing Trea Turner has not played well in a Phillies uniform.
But, there is still plenty of time for him to turn it around.
This Phillies roster is too good to be struggling as much as they are.
Look for them to make massive improvements as the season moves on.
NEXT: Phillies Insider Explains Bryce Harper's Latest Absence
