The Philadelphia Phillies may have a path to get rid of one of the worst contracts in recent history.
Taijuan Walker was signed to a four-year, $72 million contract before the 2023 season. He put together a solid first year during the regular season with the Phillies, owning a 15-6 record with a 4.38 ERA across 31 starts.
However, Walker struggled down the stretch, posting a 5.93 ERA across five starts in September. Manager Rob Thomson decided not to use the veteran during the Phillies’ postseason run that ended one win shy of a World Series appearance.
The 2024 season was even worse. Walker spent some time on the IL throughout the season and finished the year with a 3-7 record, 7.10 ERA and a .317 batting average against across 83 2/3 innings pitched. He was moved to the bullpen late in the season, where he made four appearances, posting a 6.52 ERA and 1.97 WHIP.
Marlins’ dire payroll problem could help Phillies get out of Taijuan Walker situation
Phillies fans can’t wait for the day that Walker is no longer a part of the team. That day could come sooner rather than later thanks to an NL East rival.
The Miami Marlins’ estimated luxury tax payroll sits at $79.8 million, per Spotrac. The organization must have a payroll of at least $105 million to avoid a potential grievance from the Major League Baseball Players Association.
The Marlins finished last in the division in 2024 with a 62-100 record, 33 games back of the first-place Phillies. The NL East is a powerhouse between the Phillies, the Atlanta Braves, who are looking to bounce back after an injury-filled season and the New York Mets, who recently acquired superstar outfielder Juan Soto. All three of those teams made the playoffs a season ago.
The Marlins will likely be at the bottom of the NL East and National League standings in 2025. The organization must make significant moves to reach the payroll needed to avoid a potential grievance.
Walker has two years and $36 million remaining on his contract. The right-hander has put in work over the offseason to get his career back on track. The Marlins could be the perfect situation for him to work on his craft in low-leverage situations, especially since they need to increase their payroll.
It may be a long shot, but Phillies fans may finally get their wish of not having to watch Walker pitch again in red pinstripes.