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Bryce Harper Worried About Major Phillies Issue After Latest Development

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jon Conahan | Last updated May 20, 2025 7:30 PM ET

The Philadelphia Phillies got the worst possible news on Sunday, with Jose Alvarado suspended for 80 games and out for the entire postseason. Not only is this an unfortunate situation because the Phillies needed their best relief pitcher, but now every team in Major League Baseball understands that they'll be desperate at the deadline.

Alvarado was throwing the baseball at a very high level, too, posting a 2.70 ERA already and striking out 25 hitters in 20.0 innings. With a 157 ERA+ and a 1.84 FIP, he looked to be the real deal.

Unfortunately, it won't mean much for Philadelphia.

When speaking to reporters, superstar Bryce Harper admitted that this situation was challenging for the team. He also added that it makes decisions even more difficult for Dave Dombrowski and the rest of the front office, as teams now understand that the Phillies will be interested in trading for a reliever, and desperately need one.

"It's tough when a guy goes out of the clubhouse in that way because ... teams know that we need it," Harper said, per Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer. "Obviously, Dave does a good job getting value for value. But also, it's a tough situation to be in because teams do know that we're hurting and we need something."

The Phillies have a decent farm system, but it's top-heavy. However, trading an elite prospect for a reliever wouldn't make much sense.

Teams might be asking for that, given Philadelphia's stance as contenders, knowing that the Phillies want to win a World Series, but they need to be smart here.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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