In a move to bolster their bullpen depth, the Toronto Blue Jays have signed veteran left-handed reliever Josh Walker to a one-year contract. The 30-year-old journeyman, who split last season between the New York Mets and Pittsburgh Pirates organizations, will look to carve out a role in a Blue Jays relief corps seeking to maintain its status as one of the American League’s most formidable units.
Experienced Arm Joins Jays ‘Pen
Walker, a product of the University of South Carolina, made his big league debut with the Mets in 2023 after nearly a decade toiling in the minors. While his surface-level stats over parts of two seasons in Queens weren’t eye-popping, the crafty southpaw did manage to strike out 23 batters in just 22 1/3 innings, suggesting an ability to miss bats that could prove valuable in a relief role.
Looking for a Fresh Start
Dealt from the Mets to the Pirates at last year’s trade deadline, Walker struggled to find his footing with the Bucs’ top affiliate in Indianapolis. Still, his respectable 4.78 ERA across 33 total Triple-A appearances in 2024 was enough to convince the Jays to take a flier on the experienced arm.
“Josh is a proven competitor who brings a veteran presence to our group,”
Blue Jays GM Mitch Kupchak said in a statement announcing the signing.
While Walker likely won’t be called upon to handle high-leverage situations right out of the gate, his ability to retire both lefties and righties could make him a valuable source of innings on a club that values versatility and depth in all areas of the roster.
Contract Details and Corresponding Move
Per team policy, financial terms of Walker’s deal were not disclosed, though reports indicate he’ll earn $760,000 if he makes the big league roster and $180,000 if he’s assigned to Triple-A. To clear a spot for Walker on the 40-man, Toronto designated right-hander Hagen Danner for assignment.
- Walker contract: $760k in majors, $180k in minors
- Danner DFA’d to open 40-man roster spot
While certainly not a blockbuster move, the addition of an experienced lefty like Walker is the type of under-the-radar signing that winning clubs often look back on as a key ingredient in their recipe for success. If he can rediscover the form that made him a valued member of the Mets’ relief corps, Walker could emerge as an important piece of the puzzle for a Blue Jays team with championship aspirations.
