Phillies' Taijuan Walker: Could be activated soon

Walker (shoulder) will throw a bullpen session Friday and could be activated from the 15-day injured list after that, Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports.

The Phillies had said they wanted Walker to make four rehab starts before he returns from the IL, but he's made just two so far and the organization may have been pleased enough with his progress to bring him back early. It's not yet clear what day Walker might rejoin the rotation, but it might make sense to slot him in Monday and give Ranger Suarez an extra day of rest after he threw 112 pitches in a shutout Tuesday. Spencer Turnbull has pitched well while filling in for Walker, although he struggled a bit his last time out. He would likely be bumped from the rotation when Walker is ready, or the Phillies could keep a six-man starting staff intact temporarily. Walker is coming back from a right shoulder impingement.