Walker struggles in spring debut, Schwarber stays cold at the plate

Taijuan Walker took to the mound for his first spring appearance on Saturday, having overcome knee soreness that had sidelined him the week prior. In a two-inning stint, he yielded one run on two hits, along with one walk and three strikeouts, with 20 of his 38 pitches hitting the strike zone. 

Despite the return, concerns linger about Walker's velocity, a noted issue from the previous season. His four-seam fastball and sinker averaged 89.4 mph and 89.2 mph, respectively, reflecting ongoing challenges. 

 

Although he reached a peak of 90.3 mph, doubts persist regarding his consistency in maintaining higher speeds. For reference, his four-seam fastball averaged nearly 93-mph last year. 

 

Walker's next performance should provide a clearer indication of his velocity as the season draws near. 

 

The Phillies lost to the Blue Jays on Saturday in Clearwater, 13-5. 

 

Kyle Schwarber finished 1-for-3 to raise his average to .095 on the spring. Johan Rojas finished 0-for-3 to drop his average to .185. 

 

Right-hander Max Castillo will make his second spring training start on Sunday against the Pirates in Bradenton, Fla.