Alvarado's High Velocity: Alvarado consistently hits triple digits, boasting one of the fastest fastballs and sinkers, plus the highest velocity cutter, in MLB early this season.
Recent Workload: He pitched in three consecutive games recently (as of early April 2025), culminating in his first save of the season against the Rockies.
First Save Secured: Despite allowing a run and loading the bases, Alvarado struck out Brenton Doyle to secure the 3-1 win, though it required 35 pitches. Manager Rob Thomson noted potential fatigue and plans to manage his workload carefully.
Closer by Committee: The Phillies employ a flexible approach rather than a single dedicated closer. Alvarado appears to be the primary option, especially against left-handed hitters, while Jordan Romano often handles situations favoring a right-hander.
Why this matters: Understanding the Phillies' bullpen hierarchy is crucial for fans tracking late-game situations and fantasy baseball managers looking for saves. Alvarado's health and effectiveness are pivotal to the team's continued success, especially given his high-leverage role.
The Phillies' impressive start (5-1 record, +16 run differential as of early April 2025) has seen limited save opportunities, but manager Rob Thomson's bullpen usage reveals a clear, yet adaptable, strategy. José Alvarado has been trusted in high-leverage spots, pitching three ninth innings and one eighth inning across his first four appearances. His electric stuff is undeniable – ranking among the league leaders in fastball, sinker, and cutter velocity.
However, his demanding first save situation (35 pitches, bases-loaded escape) after pitching three times in four days raised concerns about workload management. Thomson acknowledged this, indicating Alvarado would get rest. This underscores the team's reliance on a committee approach.
New signing Jordan Romano, despite an Opening Day blown save, seems slotted as the secondary closer, particularly for right-handed threats. Young Orion Kerkering is gaining experience in the 6th or 7th innings, often entering with runners on base, while veteran Matt Strahm serves as a versatile multi-inning option (7th, 8th, 10th innings pitched).
This committee strategy contrasts with the traditional single-closer model but proved effective in 2024. The Phillies bullpen had the 7th-best ERA in MLB while pitching the 4th-fewest innings, thanks partly to strong starting pitching. With Alvarado and Romano heading the committee, supported by Strahm and Kerkering, the Phillies aim to spread the late-inning pressure and leverage matchups effectively. Continued offensive support (averaging six runs per game early on) also helps reduce high-stress situations for the bullpen.
Q: Is José Alvarado the Phillies' main closer?
A: He appears to be the primary option, especially favored in lefty matchups, but the Phillies use a closer-by-committee system, sharing high-leverage situations with Jordan Romano and others based on matchups and availability.
Q: How hard does José Alvarado throw?
A: He's among the hardest throwers in MLB, with his fastball and sinker touching 100 mph and possessing the highest average velocity cutter early in the 2025 season.
Q: What was notable about Alvarado's first save of 2025?
A: He secured the save against the Rockies but needed 35 pitches, allowed a run, and had to strike out the final batter with the bases loaded after pitching for the third time in four days.
The Phillies are actively managing Alvarado's workload due to his high-effort delivery and recent usage.
Expect continued flexibility in the closer role; save opportunities could go to Alvarado or Romano depending on the game situation.
The bullpen's success hinges on multiple arms staying healthy and effective, not just one dominant closer. Keep an eye on Kerkering's development in setup roles.
The Phillies' closer-by-committee approach worked well last year. Do you think this strategy is sustainable for another deep run? Can Alvarado handle the primary closer workload effectively? Let us know your thoughts!
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