Phillies finally release Taijaun Walker after wasteful $72 million deal

Phillies finally release Taijaun Walker after wasteful $72 million deal originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Philadelphia Phillies are 8-16 on the season, and look to be in a nosedive for the bottom of the league if things don't change soon.

While Rob Thomson is firmly on the hot seat, the Phillies are making a different change before firing their skipper.

As the Phillies announced amid a string of roster moves, they have released Taijaun Walker, the $72 million disaster signing that did not work out at all.

Phillies release Taijaun Walker

"Prior to today's game against the Chicago Cubs, the Phillies recalled RHP Nolan Hoffman from Triple-A Lehigh Valley. To make room on the 26-man roster, RHP Anal Rangel was optioned to Lehigh Valley following last night's game. Additionally, RHP Taijaun Walker was released."

The Phillies' releasing Walker is not a surprise whatsoever. He was in the middle of a brutal season, the final year of his four-year, $72 million contract.

Walker had a 9.13 ERA with a 1-4 record through the first five outings of the year. His struggles were a big reason why the Phillies have the worst record in baseball, and especially why their run differential is the worst in the league.

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