News - Josh Walker Faces Turbulent MLB Offseason with Multiple DFAs

In the world of Major League Baseball, high-profile free agents often dominate headlines, but for players on the outskirts of the 40-man roster, the offseason can be a nerve-wracking period filled with uncertainty. For left-handed pitcher Josh Walker, a former member of the New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays, this offseason has been particularly tumultuous. Ending the season with the Baltimore Orioles, Walker hoped for stability but faced a different reality. On November 6, Walker faced his first designation for assignment (DFA) when the Orioles decided to clear roster space. The Atlanta Braves soon claimed him, only to DFA him again on December 5, flipping his situation overnight. The Orioles reclaimed Walker, only to cut him loose once more within a span of six weeks. As of the latest reports, Walker remains unclaimed on waivers. Should he clear waivers, Walker has the option to enter free agency or accept an outright assignment with the Orioles unless they decide to release him altogether. Walker's MLB journey has been a lesson in resiliency amidst chaos. Despite a less-than-stellar major league record of a 6.59 ERA in 27 appearances, Walker's potential is evident through his impressive 43.5% whiff rate on his curveball, prompting teams to repeatedly chance a claim in hopes of capitalizing on his untapped potential. Since debuting in 2023, Walker has faced the designation process seven times, including stints with the Philadelphia Phillies last October and previous cuts by the Mets and Pittsburgh Pirates. His current situation, while unsettling, is a testament to his perseverance. As Walker prepares for the upcoming spring training, where he will land remains uncertain, but his experiences have undoubtedly prepared him for whatever comes next.