7 Phillies Who Won't Be Back in 2025 After Major Postseason Letdown
By Jovan Alford
4. Taijuan Walker
Speaking of Walker, Phillies fans anticipate Dave Dombrowski doing something with his contract this offseason.
The veteran starting pitcher, who had 15 wins and a 4.38 ERA in 2023, struggled mightily in 2024 with a ridiculous 7.10 ERA.
Opponents had a field day with Walker on the mound this season, slashing .317/.386/.589 with 24 home runs. The 32-year-old right-handed pitcher got crushed in August as he had a 9.17 ERA and 0-3 record in four starts.
The Phillies tried putting Walker in the bullpen, which worked out somewhat. He had a 4.50 ERA in three appearances. However, opponents still slugged .333 in four appearances. Based on this team needing another bat and the potential emergence of Painter, the Phils could look to trade Walker.
The Phillies wouldn’t likely get a high-caliber slugger in return for Walker. But every team needs a pitcher, who can eat up innings throughout the season at the backend of the rotation. Walker is owed $18 million in 2025 and ‘26.