Philadelphia Phillies fans and analysts had anticipated the veteran pitcher beginning the 2025 season in the bullpen. Instead, the 32-year-old may find himself back in a familiar role as a starter. Walker could benefit from All-Star pitcher Ranger Suárez’s back issues. Phillies manager Rob Thomson shared with reporters on Wednesday that Suárez is dealing with back stiffness following his four-inning outing on Saturday. Suárez also dealt with similar back problems last season.
“That’s why we haven’t finalized anything with the rotation yet—who’s pitching when, or who gets the home opener,” Thomson said, per the Phillies’ official website. Reporter Todd Zolecki suggested that if Suárez isn’t ready, Walker might get the nod to start on April 6 against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Taijuan Walker, who inked a four-year, $72 million deal prior to the 2023 season, finished last year pitching out of the bullpen. The former 2021 NL All-Star struggled, posting a 3-7 record with a 7.10 ERA and -1.6 bWAR for the NL East champs. Heading into Thursday’s action, Walker had a 3.86 ERA over 9.1 innings in spring training, though a rough outing on Wednesday—giving up six runs to the Yankees—hurt those numbers.
Originally drafted in the first round by the Seattle Mariners in 2010, Walker has primarily been a starter throughout his career. Between 2015 and 2023, he made just one appearance as a reliever and started a career-high 31 games during his first season with the Phillies. According to Zolecki, Walker wasn’t interested in discussing a potential bullpen role on Wednesday.
“I think I’ve got one more start on Monday,” Walker said. “I’ve started every game this spring so far,” he added. “That’s been my focus.”
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