The Philadelphia Phillies pulled off a trade for Miami Marlins starter Jesús Luzardo. The move could mean that one of their All-Star pitchers has played his last game with the Phillies.
While listing players the Phillies would move on from after the trade for Luzardo, FanSided’s Mark Powell predicted that the team would move on from Taijuan Walker.
“Dombrowski claimed he would give Walker a chance to earn a rotation spot in spring training – or some role on the team, even if it’s in long relief – but it’s tougher to see that happening after they added Luzardo. Andrew Painter should be healthy again this season, as well, and will hopefully make his big-league debut,” wrote Powell. “Walker doesn’t fit into the Phillies long-term plans, which is why he deserves a fresh start elsewhere with a team that can afford an expensive placeholder.”
Walker signed a four-year, $72 million deal with the Phillies in 2022. He had a 7.10 ERA in 19 games last season. The previous season was not much better as he had a 4.38 ERA. Walker was an All-Star in 2021 with the New York Mets but has been far from that type of player with the Phillies.
His contract makes him tough to trade, but the Phillies may be willing to eat some of the money to move him. The reality is that Luzardo is a far better option for the Phillies. The rotation already features Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Ranger Suárez and Cristopher Sánchez. Luzardo gives them another elite arm and a significant upgrade from Walker.
More MLB: Cubs trade proposal lands $73 million ace after Phillies snipe Jesús Luzardo
