Phillies Consider Nestor Cortez as Taijuan Walker Replacement

The Philadelphia Phillies are linked to free agent Nestor Cortez as a possible replacement for struggling starter Taijuan Walker.

Walker has had a tough season, posting a 9.31 ERA in two starts against the Washington Nationals and Colorado Rockies. This performance has raised concerns about his reliability in the rotation.

Cortez, a 31-year-old lefty, posted a disappointing 6.29 ERA last season with the Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres. However, he had a decent showing in 2024 with the Yankees, recording a 3.77 ERA in 30 starts. He could serve as a better option than Walker, especially as the team currently lacks left-handed starters beyond Cristopher Sanchez and Jesus Luzardo.

If the Phillies sign Cortez, it would provide them with a necessary lefty in their rotation. With Zack Wheeler's return anticipated soon, Cortez could also serve as important depth in case Walker continues to underperform.