Wow, you really like Taijuan Walker

The other day, I asked you to think about which pitcher was unexpectedly having a good season, one that has helped the team in ways we wouldn’t have predicted.

It’s interesting. These are the results that I would have expected, but maybe I should have.

Walker’s contributions have been enormous this year. When Aaron Nola went down, they needed someone to step up and Walker was able to do that (as well as Mick Abel). He’s solidified the backend of the rotation and at least given them a chance to win the starts that he began. It’s really all one can ask from a fifth starter.

Let’s also not forget about Tanner Banks. Jose Alvarado was a big part of the pitching plan this season and his absence was massive. Banks was able to step in as that other left handed pitcher in the bullpen that would be able to get left handed hitters out with startling regularity. Seriously, look at those splits.