The Nationals optioned Alvarez to Triple-A Rochester following Monday's 3-2 loss to Toronto. He allowed one earned run on four hits and three walks while striking out three across 4.1 innings in bulk relief.
Alvarez put together a strong performance out of the bullpen, managing to keep his club in the ballgame after opener Eddy Yean allowed a pair of runs. However, the left-hander didn't show enough to keep his place on the big-league roster. Jake Irvin (shoulder) is nearing a return from the 60-day injured list and could slot into the fifth spot in the rotation the next time Alvarez's turn comes up.