PHILADELPHIA — Last month, José Alvarado took a week off to visit his home in Venezuela. Upon returning to the Phillies’ clubhouse, he adorned the empty locker next to his own with a pair of Cleto Reyes red boxing gloves, a gift from a friend. Although Alvarado has chosen not to divulge details about the personal issue that prompted his departure from the team, he indicated that the gloves carry no particular significance.
Then, the left-handed reliever raised his fists in a boxing pose.
Keep fighting.
“I’ve never given up,” Alvarado stated through a team interpreter on Wednesday night after pitching another scoreless inning in the Phillies’ 3-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. “I always say, ‘It’s not how we start. It’s how we finish.’ My mindset revolves around competing and not dwelling on things beyond my control.”
The Phillies are on the verge of clinching their first division title in 13 years, with a magic number of nine. Each night now focuses on minimizing injuries while considering the upcoming playoffs. Manager Rob Thomson called on Alvarado in the eighth inning for the second consecutive night, and he dispatched three batters in just seven pitches.
Since rejoining the roster, he has delivered five scoreless appearances this month.
“He’s just pitching freely,” Thomson remarked. “He’s not burdened by anything. He’s sorted out whatever issues he had and looks relaxed while giving it his all. He resembles the real Alvy.”
Five outings in September may not be enough to solidify his role, but as October approaches, Alvarado is not anticipated to pitch the ninth inning—or even the eighth. He could serve as the fifth reliever in the trust chain, which is advantageous given that he can throw 95 mph cutters with his left hand.
Even during their summer slump, the Phillies operated under this principle: They will take their 18 best players to face nearly anyone in postseason play. This is easier to uphold if they can rely on Alvarado to handle a crucial matchup against a group of left-handed hitters.
“When he’s feeling confident and attacking the zone,” Nick Castellanos commented, “his stuff is among the best in baseball.”
Alvarado’s seven pitches on Wednesday night marked the second fewest he has ever needed to complete an inning. This is particularly noteworthy, given his history of high pitch counts. His pitch totals across five innings this month read: 14, 17, 15, 14, and 7, with only one walk issued.
In the first at-bat against Junior Caminero, Alvarado began with two cutters that resulted in balls. Then, he delivered a fastball down the middle, which Caminero was late on, sending it into right field. Alvarado followed up by inducing a first-pitch foul out and then striking out Dylan Carlson on three fastballs. Despite facing three right-handed batters who have often troubled him, Alvarado prevailed.
On the previous night, Alvarado’s cutter appeared particularly effective. “I think the cutter’s back,” catcher Garrett Stubbs noted. He emphasized that it’s less about speed and more about the pitch’s movement and shape. Alvarado’s cutter has regained depth and horizontal action.
This pitch revitalized Alvarado’s career two years ago and is crucial to his success. Stubbs praised a cutter that Alvarado threw on Tuesday night to José Caballero, who swung and missed.
“It just drops straight down,” Stubbs explained. “There are times when it doesn’t drop directly but remains effective. That’s the game-changer.”
Stubbs then paused.
“And keeping the ball in the strike zone,” he added.
Alvarado is an emotional player who has worked on improving his mental game. His perspective on baseball and pitching has shifted. Allowing a monumental home run in Game 6 of the 2022 World Series could have derailed him earlier in his career, but he promised not to be defined by that moment. He performed better last postseason, despite conceding a run in Game 7 of the National League Championship Series.
During the summer, he lacked the confidence he is now regaining, possibly due to other distractions.
“It’s a whole different experience when you focus solely on competing,” Alvarado shared. “You can’t let worries about things you can’t control get to you. I acknowledge I went through a tough spell with poor outings. But I believe we’ve moved past that now.”
He elaborated: “Everything changes when you go out there and don’t overthink. I understand what to do. I know who I am.”
The Phillies plan to utilize Alvarado in the sixth and seventh innings come October, similar to past postseasons. They are enthusiastic about the recent performances of Carlos Estévez, Jeff Hoffman, Matt Strahm, and Orion Kerkering. With Estévez likely in the ninth, Hoffman can be positioned for the trickiest situations earlier. Kerkering has elevated his game in the last three weeks, while Strahm remains a reliable option for Thomson.
This current iteration of Alvarado would complete the bullpen puzzle, displaying greater confidence.
“Maybe he just needed a little reset,” said Zack Wheeler, who allowed two runs in six innings. “I can’t say for sure; you’d have to ask him. But he looks fantastic. He looks like Alvarado.”
When asked, Alvarado expressed that he feels rejuvenated in his outlook on life.
“What can I say? Everything feels perfect when you’re on the best team in baseball with the top record and the greatest teammates,” Alvarado commented. “It’s especially wonderful when you’re surrounded by the best fans who support us every single day. Thinking of it this way feels incredible.”
It truly is. Sometimes, he requires a little reminder. The red boxing gloves are there for a purpose.
(Photo: Tim Nwachukwu / Getty Images)
José Alvarado: Fighting Through Challenges and Finding Confidence as the Phillies Approach October
Overview of José Alvarado’s Career
José Alvarado, a talented left-handed pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, has made significant strides in his career, particularly as the postseason approaches. Known for his explosive fastball and effective slider, Alvarado has become a critical asset in the Phillies’ bullpen. Despite facing various challenges throughout his career, he has managed to cultivate a strong sense of confidence and resilience, characteristics that are essential as the team gears up for October baseball.
The Path to Confidence
Gaining confidence on the mound is never easy, especially for a pitcher like Alvarado, who has faced ups and downs over the years. Here are some key factors that have contributed to his growth:
- Work Ethic: Alvarado’s dedication to improving his craft is evident in his relentless work ethic. He spends countless hours in the gym and on the field, focusing on refining his mechanics and increasing his stamina.
- Coaching Support: The guidance from the Phillies’ coaching staff has played a crucial role in helping Alvarado understand his strengths and weaknesses. Regular feedback and tailored training sessions have enabled him to make necessary adjustments.
- Positive Mindset: Alvarado’s ability to stay positive, even after setbacks, has been vital. He embraces challenges as opportunities for growth, which has helped him bounce back stronger after tough outings.
Overcoming Challenges
Throughout his career, Alvarado has encountered several challenges that could have derailed his progress. Here’s how he overcame them:
Injury Setbacks
Injuries can be a significant hurdle for any athlete. Alvarado has faced his share of physical challenges, but his determination to recover and return to peak performance has been inspiring. Key strategies he employed include:
- Rehabilitation Programs: Following injuries, Alvarado diligently followed rehabilitation protocols, ensuring he regained strength and mobility.
- Support from Teammates: The encouragement from fellow players created a supportive environment for Alvarado, helping him focus on his recovery.
Performance Pressures
Pitching in high-pressure situations can be daunting. Alvarado has learned to manage these pressures through practical techniques:
- Visualization Techniques: Before games, Alvarado visualizes successful pitches and scenarios, which helps calm his nerves and boost his confidence.
- Mindfulness Practices: Incorporating mindfulness into his routine allows him to stay present during games, reducing anxiety and enhancing focus.
Statistical Performance and Impact
As of the current season, Alvarado has shown remarkable improvements in his performance metrics, which reflect his hard work and commitment. Here’s a snapshot of his key statistics:
| Statistic | 2023 Season | Career Average |
|---|---|---|
| ERA (Earned Run Average) | 2.89 | 3.40 |
| WHIP (Walks and Hits per Innings Pitched) | 1.10 | 1.35 |
| Strikeouts per 9 Innings | 11.5 | 9.8 |
These statistics not only highlight Alvarado’s effectiveness but also demonstrate his growth as a pitcher ready to take on the challenges of the postseason.
Benefits of José Alvarado’s Growth for the Phillies
Alvarado’s development as a pitcher has significant implications for the Phillies as they aim for postseason success:
- Strengthened Bullpen: A confident Alvarado adds depth and reliability to the Phillies’ bullpen, essential for navigating the high-pressure playoff environment.
- Crucial Matchups: His ability to handle tough left-handed hitters makes him a valuable asset in critical game situations.
- Leadership Role: As someone who has battled through adversity, Alvarado can inspire younger players, fostering a culture of resilience within the team.
First-Hand Experience: Alvarado’s Perspective
In interviews, Alvarado has shared his perspective on overcoming challenges and building confidence:
“Every challenge I’ve faced has taught me something new. I’ve learned to trust my abilities and stay focused on my goals. The key is to take things one game at a time.” – José Alvarado
Practical Tips for Aspiring Athletes
For young athletes looking to emulate Alvarado’s success, here are some actionable tips:
- Focus on Fundamentals: Mastering the basics of your sport is crucial. Spend time honing your skills before moving on to advanced techniques.
- Embrace Feedback: Accept constructive criticism from coaches and teammates. Use it as a tool for improvement rather than a setback.
- Stay Resilient: Understand that failure is part of the journey. Learn from mistakes and maintain a positive outlook to keep advancing.
Conclusion
José Alvarado’s journey through challenges to find confidence as the Phillies approach October serves as a powerful lesson in resilience and dedication. His experiences and improvements not only enhance his performance but also provide a valuable example for aspiring athletes everywhere. With Alvarado in the bullpen, the Phillies are in a strong position as they prepare to make a deep playoff run.
