The Philadelphia Phillies hope to enter their big seven-game home series with some momentum following the weekend, where their offense finally showed what it can do on a daily basis.

But before their game against the Houston Astros, they announced a series of roster changes that included placing their rising star Weston Wilson on the paternity list.

Now they have announced a further step.

According to a team press release, the Phillies have placed struggling reliever Jose Alvarado on the restricted list for a “personal matter.”

The left-hander was with the team on Monday before meeting with officials and leaving the stadium. They have recalled Michael Mercado to take his place.

Alvarado has not had the season that Philadelphia expects from him.

After posting an ERA+ of 100 or higher for three consecutive years, including an incredible 251 in 2023, the flamethrower has dropped to a shocking 4.30 ERA in his 56 appearances and is coming off five losses as his strikeout numbers have plummeted.

Alvarado was once considered the most important reliever in the Phillies’ bullpen and could be used by Rob Thomson in crucial situations because he was convinced he could get the team out of a tight spot. However, he has been largely unhittable in his last 30 appearances due to an inflated ERA.

Mercado rose in Philadelphia’s pipeline rankings and is now considered their 19th best talent.

He has appeared in four games with the Phillies this season, starting twice, and allowed 12 earned runs in 11.2 innings pitched.

Alvarado’s situation will continue to be monitored as he is away from the team for some time, because even despite his surprising struggles, he was still a weapon against left-handed batters, holding them to a .131 batting average.