The Philadelphia Phillies had several distinct needs heading into free agency. They needed a top of the order bat, a shortstop, and help in the rotation and bullpen. Trea Turner filled their needs in the lineup and at short, but the pitching staff still needed help.
The Phillies have begun to address those needs. According to Anthony DiComo from MLB.com, the Phillies have signed Taijuan Walker to a four year deal worth $72 million.
Taijuan Walker upgrades Philadelphia Phillies rotation
Walker had a solid showing in 2022. He posted a 3.49 ERA and a 1.195 WHiP in his 157.1 innings, striking out 132 batters with 45 walks. Those numbers would certainly fit well in the middle of the Phillies’ rotation as he would be a solid option behind Aaron Nola and Zack Wheeler.
There is reason for concern with Walker. He had struggled down the stretch last year, posting a 4.83 ERA and a 1.315 WHiP over his 54 innings from August through the end of the season. He also battled back and finger issues over the final few months, limiting his effectiveness and contributing to that rough performance.
This is also a gamble that the Phillies need to take. The Braves are not going anywhere and are locking their core in place for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the Mets replaced Jacob deGrom with Justin Verlander and are willing to spend unprecedented amounts to bring a championship to New York.
Despite those efforts, the Phillies were the National League’s representative in the World Series. They have a solid core in place as well and should continue to be a factor in the NL East for years to come. However, in order to do that, they needed to add more pitching. Walker can be a part of the answer if he is healthy.
The Philadelphia Phillies are continuing to address their needs. They have added Taijuan Walker on a four year deal to help improve their rotation.