National League East: The Pitching Powerhouses
As we dive into the National League East, it's clear that starting pitching will be the linchpin for success in this fiercely competitive division. The Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, and Atlanta Braves boast formidable rotations, each vying for the division crown.
Meanwhile, the Washington Nationals and Miami Marlins have intriguing arms that could make waves. Let’s spotlight three under-the-radar pitchers who could make a significant impact.
Taijuan Walker | Philadelphia Phillies
Taijuan Walker’s journey with the Phillies has been a rollercoaster. Over the past three seasons, his ERAs have been a mixed bag: 4.38, 7.10, and 4.08. Last year, Walker impressed in the first half with a 3.55 ERA across 20 games but hit a rough patch in the second half, posting a 4.55 ERA in 14 games.
A former All-Star in 2021, Walker has shown promise this spring, boasting a 1.29 ERA and four strikeouts over seven innings in two starts. His performance in the World Baseball Classic for Mexico was also noteworthy, striking out three in 3.1 innings.
With Zack Wheeler recovering from surgery and rookie Andrew Painter facing challenges, Walker’s role in the Phillies' rotation could be pivotal as he enters a contract year.
Kodai Senga | New York Mets
The Mets' rotation is stacked, featuring Freddy Peralta and Nolan McLean, with lefties Sean Manaea and David Peterson, and righty Clay Holmes likely completing the lineup. However, Kodai Senga is making a strong case for himself this spring. In two starts, Senga has a 3.18 ERA and seven strikeouts over 5.2 innings.
After a solid 2023 season, Senga was sidelined by a hamstring strain but managed a respectable 7-6 record with a 3.02 ERA in 22 starts. Despite struggles in August, which led to a stint in Triple-A, Senga remains a valuable asset. With no minor league options left, the Mets face a decision: keep him in the rotation or consider him as a trade piece.
Cade Cavalli | Washington Nationals
Cade Cavalli’s career has been marred by injuries, including missing all of 2023 due to Tommy John surgery. In 2025, he showed flashes of potential, going 3-1 with a 4.25 ERA in 10 starts, though he struggled in Triple-A.
Named the Nationals' Opening Day starter, Cavalli has the backing of his manager, Blake Butera, who praised his leadership and contribution to the team's culture. With former ace MacKenzie Gore now with the Rangers, Cavalli is poised to lead the Nationals' staff, supported by veteran Miles Mikolas.
Cavalli is off to a promising start this season, not allowing an earned run in nine innings over three starts, showcasing his strikeout ability while battling some control issues.
As the NL East season unfolds, these pitchers could be the key to their teams' success, each bringing unique strengths and challenges to the mound. Fans should keep an eye on how these arms shape the division’s landscape.