Philadelphia Phillies- The Philadelphia Phillies entered the 2024 season with high hopes of winning a championship, but those aspirations were dashed when they were eliminated in the National League Division Series (NLDS) by the New York Mets. As the team looks ahead to 2025, changes to the roster are expected. One player who could be on his way out is starting pitcher Taijuan Walker.

On Sunday, President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski made a significant move to strengthen the rotation, acquiring left-hander Jesús Luzardo from the Miami Marlins. Luzardo, who will join an already solid starting staff featuring Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Ranger Suárez, and Cristopher Sánchez, could push Walker out of the picture. According to FanSided’s Mark Powell, it’s becoming increasingly unlikely that Walker will remain with the Phillies in 2025.

Powell suggests that despite Dombrowski’s earlier comments about giving Walker a chance to earn a role in spring training, whether as a starter or in long relief, the addition of Luzardo complicates matters. With top prospect Andrew Painter expected to be healthy and potentially make his big-league debut, the rotation will be even more crowded, leaving Walker without a clear spot. The 32-year-old right-hander, who signed a four-year, $72 million deal with the Phillies before the 2023 season, has struggled in his two years with the team, posting a 5.27 ERA. In 2024, his struggles were even more pronounced, with a 7.10 ERA over 83 2/3 innings.

Given Walker’s high salary—he is set to earn $18 million annually in 2025 and 2026—the Phillies may decide it’s time to part ways with him. His performance and lack of fit in the team’s long-term plans make him a candidate to be traded or released, allowing him to seek a fresh start with another team that can afford to carry his expensive contract.