The Philadelphia Phillies made several roster adjustments on Sunday, removing Taijuan Walker from the rotation and recalling Seth Johnson to provide relief. Walker, who has struggled with a 2-4 record and 3.53 ERA in his 10 appearances, including eight starts, will be used in one-inning roles.
Manager Rob Thomson plans to utilize Walker’s skills in the bullpen, believing he can contribute significantly to the team’s performance. Walker, who is in his third year of a $72 million contract, has spent most of his 13-year career as a starter.
In related news, rookie pitcher Mick Abel will take over Walker’s spot in the starting rotation on Thursday against the Toronto Blue Jays. Abel made his major league debut on May 18th and has been impressive, throwing six scoreless innings.
Seth Johnson, who was recently acquired from Baltimore, is expected to provide a boost to the bullpen with his 42 strikeouts and 2-2 record in Triple-A. The 26-year-old will join Jose Ruiz, who was designated for assignment to clear a roster spot for Johnson.
Source: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/45421758/phillies-moving-taijuan-walker-relief-bullpen-shakeup