Phillies vibe check: José Alvarado loves everything about where the team is right now

The current season has been a bit of a roller coaster for Philadelphia Phillies' left-handed reliever José Alvarado. It has been his least consistent season as a member of the Phillies since 2021 when he posted a 4.20 ERA in 64 games.

Over the course of the previous two seasons, Alvarado has been one of the best relievers in the team's bullpen. The steady left-hander posted a 1.92 ERA in 2022 and a 2.41 ERA last season.

The 2024 campaign has been a different story, but that has not changed Alvarado's mindset. He feels right at home and is a big piece for this World Series-seeking team.

Phillies vibe check: José Alvarado loves everything about where the team is right now

The 29-year-old entered the season as one of the Phillies bullpen's top arms. He had shown flashes of his previous dominance early in the season but hit a speed bump in July when he posted an ERA of 8.31 in the month and his strikeout rate dropped below a batter per inning.

Then in late August, Alvarado was placed on the restricted list for personal reasons. One has to wonder if that burden was weighing on him during his struggles.

Since returning from the restricted list, the left-hander seems to have turned the corner. He has made five appearances without allowing an earned run and his strikeout rate is back to a solid 12.60.

This is great news for the Phillies as they are a club with high postseason expectations. Alvarado is happy with where he and his club are at. Corey Seidman of NBC Sports Philadelphia posted a quote from the Phillies' reliever regarding his feelings about his situation:

“What can I say? It all seems like the best thing in the world when you’re on the best team in baseball with the best record in baseball and best teammates in baseball. It all feels so nice. Just proud of everything we’re doing and the results we’ve been getting.”

As October looms, the Phillies want their bullpen to be as strong as possible heading into the postseason. Having Alvarado back to form is a huge advantage against some of the heavy-hitting playoff opponents that the club will face in the near future.

Since making the postseason in 2022 for the first time in over a decade, the vibes of the Phillies' clubhouse have been a big topic of conversation. Seeing the players — especially ones who have struggled — talk about the good place this team is in is reassuring. They will look to finish out the regular season strong and bring those vibes into October.

Trending on That Ball's Outta Here