Phillies Make Move: Send Down Max Lazar, Call Up Nolan Hoffman Ahead of José Alvarado’s Return
Setting the Stage for a Bullpen Shakeup
In a strategic and timely move ahead of José Alvarado’s eligibility to return, the Philadelphia Phillies announced they have optioned reliever Max Lazar to Triple-A Lehigh Valley and called up right-hander Nolan Hoffman, signaling a revamped bullpen as the season intensifies .
Who’s Stepping Out—and Who’s Stepping In
- Max Lazar, a 25-year-old right-handed reliever, drew attention earlier this season for his sharp performance, including an extra-innings save on May 24 . However, prior predictions already pegged him as the likely roster casualty once José Alvarado was ready to return .
- Enter Nolan Hoffman, 28, acquired by the Phillies in June and sharpened with solid showings in Triple-A (3–0 record, 3.32 ERA, 1.47 WHIP in Lehigh Valley) . He received the call-up just in time to fill the gap.
When Will Alvarado Be Back?
Alvarado, serving an 80-game suspension for violating MLB’s performance-enhancing drugs policy, is eligible to return on Tuesday, August 19, just in time for the Phillies’ home series versus the Mariners .
Why the Timing Matters
Lazar was optioned after pitching 31 pitches in Sunday’s 11-9 win over Washington—without doing so, the bullpen would have been one arm light going into Monday night’s home opener . With Alvarado ramping up through recent relief outings in Lehigh Valley, the Phillies are preparing for a smooth bullpen integration .
What It Means for the Team
- Max Lazar may not return to the majors this season unless more roster openings appear. Recent projections suggest he ends the year in Triple-A unless an injury or trade opens a spot .
- José Alvarado, known for his high-leverage presence, won’t be in the postseason but could prove invaluable down the stretch, especially supporting emerging closer Jhoan Duran .
Quick Summary
| Player | Roster Move | Role and Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Max Lazar | Optioned to Triple-A | Strong midseason work, now giving way to Alvarado’s roster return |
| Nolan Hoffman | Recalled to MLB | Trades rotation for bullpen depth; minor league performance warranted call-up |
| José Alvarado | Eligible Aug 19 | Returns from suspension to bolster high-leverage bullpen roles |
Bottom Line
The Phillies’ decision to send down Lazar and bring up Hoffman reflects astute roster management timed to coincide with José Alvarado’s imminent return. This shuffle maintains bullpen depth while preserving roster flexibility for postseason pushes. Watch for how Alvarado and Hoffman fit into manager Rob Thomson’s plans as the season nears its exciting conclusion.
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