The Philadelphia Phillies are currently tied with the New York Mets for the worst record in Major League Baseball this season, but they are set to get a major boost with ace Zack Wheeler returning to make his season debut on Saturday against the Atlanta Braves.
With Wheeler back in the rotation, Philadelphia is making a significant roster move, parting ways with veteran pitcher Taijuan Walker, who carries a hefty contract.
According to multiple reports, the Phillies have officially released Walker. Jon Heyman noted that the right-hander’s four-year, $72 million deal did not pan out, adding that he posted a 9.13 ERA this season and was in the final year of his contract.
Walker struggled heavily in 2026, allowing 23 earned runs in just 22.1 innings—one of the worst marks in MLB. Across his Phillies tenure, he logged a 4.90 ERA over 402.1 innings, giving up 73 home runs while striking out 290 batters.
Before joining Philadelphia, Walker spent time with the New York Mets, where he had a solid stretch that included an All-Star appearance in 2021 and a 4.47 ERA that season.
Now 33 years old and a 14-year MLB veteran, Walker owns a career 4.27 ERA with over 1,100 strikeouts across more than 1,300 innings. Despite his experience, his recent struggles likely limit him to minor league opportunities if he continues his career, while the Phillies move forward with Wheeler leading their rotation.
