Taijuan Walker Adjusts to Bullpen Role for Phillies

TAMPA, Fla. — Taijuan Walker is adapting to a new role as a reliever for the Philadelphia Phillies after Ranger Suárez returned from the injured list. Walker, who started the season well with a 2.54 ERA, now faces the challenge of transitioning from a starting pitcher to the bullpen.

“I don’t think there’s any really way to approach it, because I don’t really control when I pitch,” Walker said. “The only thing I do is be ready to pitch whenever.” This change is significant as Walker has mostly been a starter throughout his 13-year career, with only eight of his 223 career appearances as a reliever.

Last season, Walker struggled with command and velocity, which led to his temporary move to the bullpen under different circumstances. His strong performance this year, however, has kept hopes alive for a potential return to the starting rotation. Manager Rob Thomson mentioned the possibility of switching back to a six-man rotation in the future.

Walker has leaned on teammates like Matt Strahm and Joe Ross, both of whom also made the transition from starter to reliever. Strahm has been a significant resource as Walker navigates his new routine, which will now require him to adjust his stretching and preparation.

“It’s definitely going to change,” Walker said. “I guess now it’s just kind of figuring out my stretching routine and just really lock in and get ready.” This change comes at a time when the Phillies bullpen has struggled, leading to them currently tied for the league lead in blown saves.

In addition to Walker’s situation, the Phillies celebrated strong performances from their minor league affiliates. Right-hander Mick Abel was named pitcher of the month for April, while Otto Kemp and Aroon Escobar shared hitter of the month honors.

With Walker transitioning to a relieving role, the Phillies are hopeful that he can bolster a struggling bullpen, even though the veteran feels the weight of this unexpected shift.