Phillies Reportedly 'Reached Out' to David Robertson Before Jose Alvarado Suspension

Before the 80-game suspension of Philadelphia Phillies reliever Jose Alvarado was made official, the team reportedly explored the possibility of bringing back a familiar face as his replacement.

According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Phillies "reached out" to free-agent relief pitcher David Robertson, who had two previous stints with the franchise, before the announcement of Alvarado's suspension.

Robertson spent the 2024 season with the Texas Rangers and appeared in 68 games, posting a 3-4 record, a 3.00 ERA and 99 strikeouts across 72.0 innings. He declined his part of a mutual option to become a free agent, and he remains unsigned.

Feinsand noted that "no serious talks took place" between the Phillies and Robertson, but added that "it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Phillies considered a reunion with the 40-year-old," who is considered "easily the best reliever left on the open market."

Alvarado was suspended for 80 games for violating MLB's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment program after he tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance. He won't be eligible to pitch in the postseason, leaving Philadelphia without its most reliable closer. In 20 appearances this season, he had a 4-1 record with a team-high seven saves, a 2.70 ERA and 25 strikeouts in 20.0 innings.

MLB Network's Jon Morosi named the St. Louis Cardinals as a potential seller before this season's trade deadline and called closer Ryan Helsley "a really good fit for the Phillies."

For now, it appears that Philadelphia will rely on a committee approach, with relievers Jordan Romano, Matt Strahm and Orion Kerkering as the primary late-inning options. Morosi added that starting pitcher Taijuan Walker could be moved to the bullpen to alleviate the loss of Alvarado as well.