In a last-minute dash to strengthen their bullpen before the trade deadline, the Pittsburgh Pirates bolstered their pitching roster by acquiring lefty Josh Walker from the New York Mets. In return, the budding 18-year-old Minor League prospect Nicolas Carreno will be taking his talents to the Mets organization, as detailed in a report by CBS News Pittsburgh. The trade culminates just hours before the official cutoff time for player exchanges in the MLB.
Prior to being designated for assignment by the Mets, Walker had managed to compile a 5.11 ERA with a 1.54 WHIP, striking out 11 in the 12 1/3 innings he pitched over 10 games this season. However, his performance showed a glimpse of promise earlier in the year where he maintained a 2.08 ERA during his first eight appearances, according to WTAE. The hope is clearly to have Walker rediscover his early season form as he settles into his new home with the Pirates.
The 29-year-old Walker, who made his major league debut with the Mets last year, also showcased his skill in Triple-A Syracuse, achieving a sharp 2.83 ERA, five saves, and a diminutive .157 batting average against, across 25 appearances. "He made his big league debut with the Mets in 2023 after being drafted by the New York ballclub in the 37th round of the 2017 MLB Draft Draft," as detailed by CBS News Pittsburgh, highlighting his journey to the major leagues. Walker is now set to report to Triple-A Indianapolis with the Pirates’ organization.
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