Overview
- The Angels re-signed right-hander Taijuan Walker and assigned him to Triple-A Salt Lake on Thursday after he briefly exercised an opt-out to test the market.
- Walker had been released by the Philadelphia Phillies in April after a difficult start to 2026 that left him 1-4 with a 9.13 ERA in limited action.
- Philadelphia remains responsible for Walker’s $18 million 2026 pay while the Angels would only owe a prorated major-league minimum if he is promoted to their roster.
- Since joining the Angels organization in late May, Walker posted a 2.45 ERA across 11 innings in rookie ball and Triple-A, including a 4 2/3-inning, two-run Triple-A start.
- The club’s need for depth grew after Jack Kochanowicz underwent Tommy John surgery, with Sam Aldegheri getting the first look for the open rotation spot and Walker serving as an experienced fallback option as the Angels try to stabilize their pitching staff.