Walker will return to Phillies rotation against Marlins; Lazar rewarded with summons originally appeared in NBC Sports Philadelphia
PHOENIX — After missing just over seven weeks with inflammation in his right index finger, Taijuan Walker will return to the Phillies’ rotation Tuesday against the Marlins to start a six-game homestand.
Walker made two rehab appearances with Double A Reading, throwing 41 pitches in 2⅔ innings on July 31 and 60 pitches in five innings on Wednesday. He will likely be limited to 75 or better in his first start with the Phils.
Walker’s speed was up to 93 mph in his first rehab start and was 90-92 this week. Coach Rob Thomson said he’s heard good reports about the splitter.
“Throwing strikes, a lot of soft contact, he’s in a really good position right now,” Thomson said.
With Walker returning on Tuesday, the Phillies optioned lefty Kolby Allard to Triple A. Allard performed well in two starts and one relief appearance, allowing five runs in 13 innings with just two walks. He hit the zone against an overly aggressive Arizona lineup on Thursday night, limiting the D-backs to just one solo home run in his five innings.
“With Allard, he pitches really well and we want to keep him stretched,” Thomson said. “Great balance. He throws punches, he’s not afraid of contact. His hitting ability and his command are really good. He showed us something during that time.”
Max Lazar, a 25-year-old right-handed reliever, took Allard’s place on the active roster.
Lazar has a fastball in the 94-95 mph range and a curveball that has been his money shot this season.
He was hot in the upper minors with a 1.79 ERA, 13 saves and 53 strikeouts in 40⅓ innings. This is his first year in the Phillies organization after seven in the Brewers’ farm system.
“I came out of high school and I don’t think I was really ready for professional football right away, physically and mentally,” he said Friday. “Covid, he missed the entire season and then suffered injuries. I think I’ve matured from it and my game has sharpened.”
Lazar’s girlfriend and some of his family are in town hoping to see his MLB debut this weekend at Chase Field. He may not be standing since he stands out as the roster’s most likely casualty when Walker leaves the IL on Tuesday.
“Starting with low leverage, try to get him a clean entry, especially the first one, let him get his feet on the ground,” Thomson said.
“He’s excited to be here. He’s not a very talkative guy, he’s very quiet. But he’s talented. Everyone in the world who played this game in its first game is nervous. It will end eventually.”
Suárez update
Ranger Suarez (lower back spasms) threw 36 pitches in a bullpen session Thursday in Arizona, simulating ending one inning and leaving for another. He will pitch again on Sunday and then line up for live batting practice at home on Tuesday.
Suarez will not return to his homeland next week, and Thomson has expressed his desire to see him begin rehabilitation to ensure he can step into his role without any problems.
