Marlins’ dire payroll problem could help Phillies get out of Taijuan Walker situation
There might be light at the end of the tunnel for Phillies fans to never watch Taijuan Walker pitch again wearing their team’s uniform.
The Philadelphia Phillies may have a path to get rid of one of the worst contracts in recent history.
Taijuan Walker was signed to a four-year, $72 million contract before the 2023 season. He put together a solid first year during the regular season with the Phillies, owning a 15-6 record with a 4.38 ERA across 31 starts.
However, Walker struggled down the stretch, posting a 5.93 ERA across five starts in September. Manager Rob Thomson decided not to use the veteran during the Phillies’ postseason run that ended one win shy of a World Series appearance.
The 2024 season was even worse. Walker spent some time on the IL throughout the season and finished the year with a 3-7 record, 7.10 ERA and a .317 batting average against across 83 2/3 innings pitched. He was moved to the bullpen late in the season, where he made four appearances, posting a 6.52 ERA and 1.97 WHIP.
Marlins’ dire payroll problem could help Phillies get out of Taijuan Walker situation
Phillies fans can’t wait for the day that Walker is no longer a part of the team. That day could come sooner rather than later thanks to an NL East rival.
