The Phillies had to move Walker back into their rotation just as they discussed making him a late-inning reliever for the first time.

The Phillies have a glut of starting pitching and a dearth of relief. Mick Abel will fill Walker’s starting spot Thursday in Toronto. The Phillies have four capable starters, plus the injured Aaron Nola, plus Abel, plus Andrew Painter once July arrives. That leaves no room for Walker.

Philadelphia Phillies right-hander Taijuan Walker is being shifted from the starting rotation to the bullpen as the team retools its pitching staff. "I think Tai's got a chance to make us a lot better coming out of the ‘pen,