The Los Angeles Angels announced Thursday they have re-signed veteran right-hander Taijuan Walker to a minor league contract. Walker had previously opted out of a non-roster deal with the team on Monday, but after exploring options, he returned to the organization and has been assigned back to Triple-A Salt Lake.
Walker began the 2026 season with the Philadelphia Phillies after signing a four-year, $72 million contract in the 2023 winter. However, he failed to find success in limited action, going 1-4 with a 9.13 ERA over five appearances early in the 2026 campaign. Across 22 2/3 innings with Philadelphia this season, he allowed more than a run per inning, leading to his release in April.
Los Angeles, meanwhile, continues to flounder this season, sitting last in the American League West with a 27-42 record through 69 games. Their pitching staff has also been an issue, ranking 26th in MLB with a 4.68 team ERA. The rotation currently includes Jose Soriano, Reid Detmers, Grayson Rodriguez, and Walbert Urena, while Jack Kochanowicz is set to miss the rest of the season and likely into 2027 after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Sam Aldegheri has been given an early look in the vacated rotation spot.
Walker originally joined the Angels on a minor league deal in late May after a stint on the free agent market. Between rookie-ball and Triple-A Salt Lake, he managed a 2.45 ERA over 11 innings. In his only Triple-A start, he threw 4 2/3 innings, allowing two runs with three strikeouts and three walks against the Colorado Rockies’ affiliate. With over 1,300 major league innings of experience, he provides organizational depth. His contract still pays him $18 million from the Phillies, while Los Angeles would owe him a prorated $780,000 MLB minimum if he reaches the majors.
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