The Phillies signed Jesús Luzardo in the summer, signaling the end of Taijuan Walker’s stay with the team. But, as luck would have it, Ranger Suárez sustained an injury prior to the season, forcing Walker into the rotation. However, when Suárez comes from the injured list, the Phillies may try to trade Walker rather than moving him to the bullpen or releasing him. Jon Conahan of Athlon Sports recently proposed a blockbuster trade that would send Walker to the New York Mets this season.
“Walker is currently on a four-year, $72 million deal through 2026,” according to Conahan. “There aren’t many Major League Baseball teams eager to take on that contract, and the Phillies will almost certainly have to pay a significant portion of it down. However, the New York Mets, where he was an All-Star in 2021, could offer him another chance. It’s unusual for a team to move one of its starting pitchers to a division opponent, but given Walker’s recent history with Phillies fans, this could be an exception.
The Mets have developed a reputation for turning around faltering pitchers’ careers. Walker might be a significant addition, given Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas are currently injured. A transaction would certainly cost New York almost little prospect capital.
Leave a Reply