Phillies make brutal decision over $72million star pitcher after 12-run nightmare
The Philadelphia Phillies are moving star pitcher Taijuan Walker to the bullpen amid the team's 4-game losing streak to shake things up before their season turns into freefall.
Walker moves from the starting mound after another Phillies starter, Jesus Luzardo, gave up 12 runs on Saturday against the Milwaukee Brewers, setting off a chain reaction of personnel moves.
Walker, who is in the third year of a $72million contract, last pitched in Friday's loss to Milwaukee, where he gave up seven hits and four runs in four innings of work.
The 32-year-old has made 10 appearances this season, with eight coming as starts. Walker has amassed a 2-4 record and a 3.53 earned-run average.
Maybe the biggest blow of all for Walker is Phillies manager Rob Thomson admitting the team will use him in one-inning roles at first.
Walker has been a starter for most of his career, with the Phillies demotion a blow to his involvement with the team.
Mick Abel will take Walker's place in the starting lineup, with his next start slated for Thursday.
Abel is already on Philadelphia's roster, being called up to the big leagues last month, and will make the opposite journey from Walker.
The Phillies are only one game back of the New York Mets for first place in the National League East and hold the top Wild Card spot.
Yet, with how things have transpired over the last week or so, with only two victories to show in those games, the Phillies are being proactive to right the ship.
Philadelphia is three games ahead of the St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants, who are tied for the final Wild Card spot.
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