Christian Walker to Join the Orioles

Mandatory Credit: Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports

Just over 12 hours after the Baltimore Orioles clinched their first AL East Division Title since 1997, the Orioles announced a new addition to the team. With hopes of giving first baseman Steve Pearce some rest with the Playoffs in sight now, the Baltimore Orioles announced that Minor Leaguer, Christian Walker will be called up to the Division Champs in Baltimore.

Baltimore’s No. 4 prospect batted .288 this season (in Double-A and Triple-A) with 26 home runs and 96 RBI. Walker played 135 games in the Minors at first base this season, posting a .989 fielding percentage with just 13 total errors committed.

The Orioles were wary on adding the former Gamecock to the 40 man roster because he did not need to be protected this winter in the Rule 5 draft. Nevertheless, giving rest to Pearce was a must going into the Postseason. And this will work out for the Orioles in the long run.

Walker has a very good chance at making the team next season so these final games of the 2014 season could be considered his “tryout” if you will. It is always exciting to see a top prospect for the Orioles make his Major league debut late in the season. Jonathan Schoop made his debut last September and he had a night to remember hitting his first Major League home run that night as well.

Walker’s debut will be all the sweeter knowing that the Orioles are Division Champs and headed to the Postseason for the second time in three years. Christian Walker you have the floor… Let’s see what you got!