Following a tough 9-3 loss to the Atlanta Braves, the Philadelphia Phillies moved quickly to bolster their bullpen, acquiring left-handed reliever Josh Walker from the Toronto Blue Jays. The team announced the move via their official X (formerly Twitter) account, signaling a sense of urgency after José Alvarado’s 80-game PED suspension left a hole in the bullpen.
Walker was acquired for cash considerations and has been sent to Triple-A Lehigh Valley. His addition fills an open spot on the Phillies’ 40-man roster left vacant by Alvarado’s suspension. While Walker won’t immediately pitch in the majors, the Phillies see him as a depth piece who could provide needed bullpen flexibility.
The 6-foot-6 southpaw was recently designated for assignment by Toronto after allowing four earned runs over five innings in a brief MLB stint. Despite the rough ERA, he struck out eight and walked just two, showing an ability to generate swings and misses. He features a mid-80s curveball and a fastball that sits in the 93-94 mph range, tools the Phillies hope to refine.
Originally a 37th-round draft pick out of the University of New Haven, Walker debuted in the majors with the Mets in 2023 and has since spent time with the Pirates and Blue Jays. Over 30.2 career MLB innings, he has a 6.46 ERA, but his strikeout potential continues to intrigue teams looking for upside.
So far in 2025, Josh Walker has posted a 3.18 ERA with 14 strikeouts over 11.1 innings at Triple-A Buffalo. While command issues persist, his 27% strikeout rate hints at untapped potential. By assigning him to Triple-A Lehigh Valley, the Phillies are signaling a desire to help him regain consistency before considering a call-up.
With only two left-handed relievers—Matt Strahm and Tanner Banks—currently in the Phillies’ bullpen, this acquisition addresses a clear need. Walker, in his final minor league option year, gives the team roster flexibility without forcing an immediate commitment.
As the Phillies push toward the postseason and sit atop the NL East, even modest bullpen reinforcements could prove valuable. If Walker can sharpen his control in Allentown, a return to the majors may not be far off. For now, it’s a strategic depth move from a team well aware that playoff success depends on a reliable bullpen.
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