The Philadelphia Phillies were dealt a major blow when reliever José Alvarado received an 80-game suspension for violating the league’s PED policy. Alvarado had been enjoying a strong bounce-back season after a disappointing 2024, posting a 4-1 record with seven saves, a 2.70 ERA, and 25 strikeouts over 20 innings.
His sudden absence creates a significant void in the Phillies’ bullpen for the foreseeable future and potentially into the postseason.
Given the circumstances, it’s becoming increasingly likely that Philadelphia could turn to a familiar face: veteran reliever and former postseason standout. Still unsigned in free agency, he represents the best bullpen option left on the market—and the Phillies wouldn’t need to give up any assets to bring him back.
Phillies should bring back David Robertson to help the bullpen after losing José Alvarado
In fact, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, a source revealed that the Phillies had already reached out to veteran reliever David Robertson even before José Alvarado’s suspension was announced.
“While no serious discussions took place, the source noted,” Feinsand wrote, “it wouldn’t be surprising if Philadelphia pursued a reunion with the 40-year-old, who’s already had two prior stints with the team.”
Bringing back the former All-Star would be a significant boost to a bullpen now missing one of its top arms. Robertson, despite being 39 last season, turned in a strong performance with the Texas Rangers, going 3-4 with a 3.00 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, and 99 strikeouts in 72 innings across 68 outings.
Phillies fans may recall Robertson’s key role in the club’s 2022 postseason run. Acquired from the Cubs at the trade deadline, he posted a 2.70 ERA with six saves and 30 strikeouts in just over 23 innings, helping Philadelphia reach the playoffs for the first time in over a decade. He followed that with a dominant 1.17 ERA and 11 strikeouts over 7 2/3 innings in eight postseason appearances, playing a vital role in the team’s journey to the World Series.
A return to Philadelphia could offer Robertson one last shot at a title with a club he knows well—and provide the Phillies with a much-needed bullpen reinforcement in Alvarado’s absence. The only real investment would be time and patience as he ramps back up after his extended free-agent layoff. It feels like the right move. Now it’s up to the Phillies to make it happen.
