The Philadelphia Phillies face tough bullpen questions as Orion Kerkering’s future hangs in the balance and Jose Alvarado’s rollercoaster tenure appears to reach its end. Can Kerkering unlock his potential, or have persistent mental hurdles and inconsistent adjustments finally closed his window in Philadelphia? Meanwhile, Alvarado’s control issues and off-field setbacks, including a PED suspension, spark debate about the Phillies’ bullpen direction heading into a crucial offseason. Host Connor Thomas delivers sharp assessments of individual relievers’ seasons, including Brad Keller’s injury-shortened campaign and the risks tied to his contract. Key discussion points feature bullpen grading, contract statuses, and what these moves mean for the team’s setup roles. The spotlight turns to looming bullpen holes, left-handed reliever depth concerns, and the urgency to target upgrades in free agency. Will the Phillies’ front office find winning formulas to revitalize this struggling bullpen core? 00:00 — Evaluating Orion KerkeringDiscussion on Kerkering's future with the Phillies, his struggles, mental game, pitch repertoire, statistical regression, and whether his time in Philadelphia is over.12:58 — Is Jose Alvarado Finished?In-depth look at Alvarado’s inconsistent tenure, PED suspension, declining performance, and reasons why a return seems unlikely.20:54 — Brad Keller's Uncertain FutureAnalysis of Keller’s injury-shortened season, contract implications, possible comeback, and the bullpen's broader challenges. Photo Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gameday Mens HealthGameday Men’s Health is a real, in-person men’s health clinic that looks at the full picture before developing a treatment plan. Book your complimentary test and consult at https://join.gamedaymenshealth.com/reasons_to_choose_gameday-1201?utm_source=lockedon&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=MLB&utm_network=lockedon&utm_adgroup=corp&ghl_tag=national,corp KALSHIFor a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. 5-Hour ENERGYSpice up your season with rich pumpkin flavor and bold cinnamon swagger in every sip. Pumpkin Spice 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots are available for a limited time in stores and on https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon. FanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
