Elvis Alvarado shows potential as A's closer after rough start
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 25, 2026, 5:56 AM
Last updated Oct 25, 2026
Elvis Alvarado rebounded from a challenging start to the 2026 season to become a notable bullpen option for the Athletics. After struggling with an 8.38 ERA in April, he was sent to Triple-A, where he posted a 2.25 ERA. Upon returning to the majors in June, he recorded a 2.96 ERA across 45⅔ innings, striking out 30.3% of batters while reducing his walk rate to 9.7%. His improved performance may position him as a candidate for closer duties in 2027 after accumulating six saves in 2026.
- •Alvarado initially struggled with an 8.38 ERA in April.
- •He was optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas and excelled before returning.
- •After his return, he achieved a 2.96 ERA with improved strikeout and walk rates.
- •Alvarado collected six saves in the 2026 season.
- •He could become the A's closer in 2027.
- 5:56 AMYahoo Sports — Elvis Alvarado Turned a Rough April into a Potential Closer Audition By Season's End
"The A's hard-throwing right-hander seemed to be following a familiar path early in the season, but when he made his return in June, Alvarado looked more like their closer.
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