Phillies Shift Walker to Bullpen, Promote Mick Abel

The Philadelphia Phillies have moved veteran pitcher Taijuan Walker from the starting rotation to a high-leverage bullpen role after he struggled in his last start, allowing four runs over four innings and posting a 3.53 ERA in 43.1 innings this season. The move comes as the Phillies deal with the absence of key pitchers, including Aaron Nola due to injury and Jose Alvarado due to suspension, and aim to stabilize a struggling bullpen. Top prospect Mick Abel has been promoted to start in Walker's place, following a strong MLB debut and improved command at Triple-A. Manager Rob Thomson expressed confidence in both Walker's ability to adapt to relief and Abel's potential in the rotation. Walker's performance in his new role may significantly influence the Phillies' trade deadline strategy. The team hopes these changes will strengthen their pitching staff overall.