The Philadelphia Phillies made a major move by signing pitcher Jesús Luzardo to a five-year, $135 million extension, but the financial commitment could affect their ability to retain other players in the future.
According to Christopher Kline of FanSided, one player who might be impacted is veteran reliever José Alvarado, whose contract is set to expire after this season.
With so much money now committed to the rotation, the Phillies could struggle to match the price Alvarado may command on the open market.
Alvarado’s 2025 season ended early after he was suspended for a positive PED test, which also made him ineligible for the postseason.
Before the suspension, however, the hard-throwing left-hander delivered solid results, posting a 3.81 ERA with 32 strikeouts across 26 innings while continuing to serve as a high-leverage bullpen option.
His ability to generate strikeouts and limit damage with powerful fastballs makes him an appealing target for teams seeking late-inning relief.
Despite occasional command issues, Alvarado has built a reputation for performing in pressure situations, which should attract strong interest when he reaches free agency.
Given Philadelphia’s other bullpen investments and the significant money now tied up in starting pitching, the reliever’s next contract could ultimately exceed the team’s comfort zone.
During the season, Alvarado finished with a 4-2 record, a 3.81 ERA, 32 strikeouts, a 1.308 WHIP, and seven saves across 28 appearances before the suspension.
The Phillies did exercise his club option for 2026, which will pay him $9 million, but projections suggest he could land a four-year deal worth about $46.2 million once he becomes a free agent.
While a modest salary increase alone might not prevent Philadelphia from keeping him, a competitive bidding war could make it difficult for the Phillies to retain the talented reliever long-term. ⚾
