Phillies’ latest public show of faith in Taijuan Walker sounds completely insane

The Philadelphia Phillies boast a solid starting rotation, but an injury to Ranger Suárez has left a temporary vacancy. Enter Taijuan Walker—the $72 million man—who is now stepping in to fill the role for most of April.

With his contract running through 2026 and no apparent urgency from the Phillies to move on from him in the offseason, this development isn’t exactly shocking. However, expectations should have been higher.

Despite skepticism, Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski remains optimistic. Speaking to MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki ahead of the 2025 season, Dombrowski defended Walker’s opportunity.

“It’s a great opportunity. It’s good to have somebody like that,” Dombrowski said. “I hope he pitches like he did a couple years ago. I don’t see why he can’t with what he has now. He’s thrown well enough.”