Overview

• José Alvarado was suspended 80 games for testing positive for exogenous testosterone, sidelining the club’s most effective reliever since mid-2022.
• Matt Strahm and Jordan Romano have shouldered late-inning duties but the bullpen’s 4.61 ERA highlights the strain on available arms.
• Taijuan Walker will transition into a high-leverage relief role after displaying enhanced fastball velocity in recent outings.
• Aaron Nola’s placement on the 15-day injured list with a sprained ankle has created a rotation opening for Mick Abel or Andrew Painter.
• With the Phillies unlikely to trade for a reliever, internal options must carry them through upcoming series against .500-plus teams.