Mick Abel to Return to the Phillies Pitching Rotation, Taijuan Walker Moves to the Bullpen

The Philadelphia Phillies will have a new look to the pitching rotation when they head north of the border for a three-game series against the Toronto Blue Jays. The team will recall starting pitcher Mick Abel from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to start on Thursday. He will take Taijuan Walker’s spot in the rotation. 

The moves were announced by Phillies’ skipper Rob Thomson on Sunday morning. And unlike his previous start, Abel might be sticking around for a bit. 

When asked about Abel’s next start being a one-time deal, Thomson said, “it all depends on (Aaron) Nola and how well Mick does.” 

Nola was placed on the 15-day injured list retroactive to May 15 with a sprained right ankle. The righty has been working his way back from the injury but will need at least one rehabilitation start before he rejoins the ballclub. The uncertainty of the Nola situation leaves the door open for an extended stay for Abel.

The No.8 prospect in the Phillies organization according to MLB Pipeline, Abel made his Major League debut and earned his first Big League win on June 18 against Pittsburgh. Abel struck out nine batters in six scoreless innings against the Pirates. He was sent back to Triple-A Lehigh Valley following the impressive debut in order to maintain normal rest. The 23-year-old made two additional starts for the IronPigs allowing one earned run in just over 10 innings of work. 

The ballclub will need to make a roster move prior to Thursday’s game. 

Taijuan Walker to the Bullpen

As for Taijuan Walker, he will once again assume a bullpen role according to Thomson. 

“Tai’s got a chance to make us a lot better coming out of the ‘pen,” Thomson said. Walker has appeared in two games as a reliever this year for the club. He’s struck out nine batters over six innings of relief. It’s a role Walker will likely have for the foreseeable future.