José Alvarado Eyes Comeback After Suspension and Injury Setbacks

José Alvarado is looking forward to a fresh start after overcoming significant challenges last season, which included an 80-game suspension for a positive performance-enhancing drug test and a forearm injury that limited him to just 28 appearances. The left-handed reliever for the Philadelphia Phillies stated, “I want to say last year is over,” as he prepares for the upcoming 2026 season.

Alvarado’s return to the mound has been met with optimism. After serving his suspension, he rejoined the team in August 2025 but faced further difficulties, as a left forearm strain sidelined him for the remainder of the season. This meant he was also ineligible to participate in the playoffs, a disappointment for both him and the organization.

The Phillies have shown their commitment to Alvarado by exercising his $9 million club option for 2026, ensuring he remains a part of the team as he approaches free agency after the season. The 30-year-old pitcher is keen to demonstrate his capabilities, particularly emphasizing his preparation for spring training.

“I prepare for coming healthy in this spring. I’m so happy for me, what I see in this spring now. Keep working hard and never give up,” Alvarado remarked recently.

Strategic Approach to Pitching Development

This offseason, Alvarado took a more cautious approach to his throwing regimen, engaging in fewer bullpen sessions and live at-bats than usual, a strategy designed to protect his forearm. According to Phillies pitching coach Caleb Cotham, the adjusted pace is intentional. “I wouldn’t use the word behind, but it’s just more intentional with the build-up,” he explained.

As Alvarado prepares for the 2026 season, he is also looking to participate in the World Baseball Classic representing Venezuela. This international tournament will serve as a platform for him to accelerate his ramp-up process as he continues to refine his skills.

With the arrival of spring training, Alvarado has focused on his four-seam fastball, a pitch he has primarily used in his early career but has since leaned more heavily on his sinker-cutter mix. In his abbreviated 2025 season, he only threw six four-seamers over 26 innings, averaging an impressive 99.6 mph. His exploration of this pitch is significant, particularly against right-handed hitters who may perform better against sinkers.

“I’m not very confident on that pitch because when it’s game time, it’s different energy. It looked good,” Alvarado said regarding his four-seamer after a recent bullpen session.

Cotham has expressed confidence in Alvarado’s ability to incorporate the four-seam fastball into his game, noting its potential to enhance his overall effectiveness. “It’s also a nice way to keep the sinker calibrated, because he can feel the difference in the four-seam and sinker,” Cotham added.

Alvarado’s development will be closely monitored during the Grapefruit League games, which begin for the Phillies this Saturday. The exhibition games will provide him with the opportunity to test his pitches in competitive scenarios, allowing him to gauge their effectiveness against live batters.

As the season approaches, the Phillies are keen to see how Alvarado integrates his four-seam fastball into his arsenal. His ability to adapt and grow will be crucial, especially as the team aims to strengthen its bullpen for the 2026 campaign.

In summary, José Alvarado is determined to move past the challenges of the previous year and is actively preparing for a successful return to the mound. With both personal and team aspirations at stake, all eyes will be on him as he embarks on this new chapter of his career.