The Philadelphia Phillies’ need for relievers just got bigger.

Jordan Romano has continued to struggle and now news broke on Sunday about José Alvarado being suspended 80 games for PEDs. Alvarado was one of the bright spots for the bullpen, but now they must start over.

Given the Orioles’ struggles this season, the Phillies must pursue closer Felix Bautista.

Through 13 games this season, Bautista has recorded a 2.77 ERA for the Orioles with seven saves and 15 strikeouts.

The 29-year-old reliever has been one of the few bright spots for the Orioles this season. However, he’s walked eight batters in his 13 games this season. It’s resulted in his FIP shooting up to 3.64, a number indicative of being helped out by his defense when he issues free passes.

Bautista would’ve been an upgrade to the Phillies bullpen even with Alvarado active. Now, he would elevate the bullpen to a much higher level.

The only downside to acquiring Bautista for the Phillies would be how much they would have to give up for the All-Star closer. He’s under team control through the 2027 season, meaning the Phillies would have to pay for 2 1/2 years of control. However, the team has been overdue to make a splash move at the deadline for bullpen help for a few years now. This is the time the team must act.

Bautista would immediately slot in to the closer role vacated by Alvarado. He would benefit greatly from pitching for a contender instead of a team like the Orioles who are heading in the direction of being the worst teams in baseball.

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