Phillies Should Remove Struggling Pitcher From Rotation for Next Start

Veteran Taijuan Walker has struggled mightily, and the team should turn to a minor league option for his next scheduled start.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 11:07pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fragmented motion of a baseball pitcher's windup and delivery, with sharp, overlapping planes in muted earth tones representing the Phillies' pitching struggles.The Phillies' rotation struggles are fracturing the team's hopes for a playoff push, requiring a new geometric approach to fix their pitching woes.Chicago Today

The Philadelphia Phillies have struggled mightily in recent games, and their pitching staff has not lived up to expectations. Veteran starter Taijuan Walker has been particularly poor, allowing 7 runs in just 4 innings in his latest start. With Zack Wheeler expected back soon but not ready for the next turn in the rotation, the Phillies should consider removing Walker from the rotation and giving a minor league call-up, Alan Rangel, a chance to start in his place.

Why it matters

The Phillies have high expectations this season, but their poor play of late has them falling behind in the NL East standings. Addressing their pitching struggles, especially with their veteran starters, will be crucial to turning things around and getting back into playoff contention.

The details

In their last 10 games, the Phillies have a 3-10 record and have lost three straight series. Starter Taijuan Walker has been particularly ineffective, allowing 7 runs in just 4 innings in his latest start against the Braves. With Zack Wheeler expected to return soon but not ready for the next turn in the rotation, the Phillies have an opportunity to give a minor league call-up, Alan Rangel, a chance to start in Walker's place.

  • On Friday night, the Phillies were blown out at home by the Braves.
  • Walker is currently scheduled to start for the Phillies on Wednesday against the Cubs.
  • Zack Wheeler is expected to return to the Phillies' rotation next weekend against the Braves.

The players

Taijuan Walker

A veteran right-handed pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies who has struggled mightily in his last few starts, including allowing 7 runs in just 4 innings in his latest outing.

Zack Wheeler

The Phillies' ace pitcher who is expected to return to the rotation soon, but will not be ready in time to replace Walker for his next scheduled start.

Alan Rangel

A minor league pitcher in the Phillies' system who has pitched well so far this season, with a 1.66 ERA, and could be called up to replace the struggling Taijuan Walker in the rotation for his next start.

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What they’re saying

“With Wheeler not being a realistic option for Wednesday, the team can turn to Alan Rangel. So far in the minors this year, he has pitched well with a 1.66 ERA. With Walker struggling so much, moving him out of the rotation for his next scheduled start would send a good message to the team that they are in need of turning things around.”

— Nick Ziegler, Author

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.