4/13/2009 - Press Releases
RailCats Add Pitcher Edwin Walker; Catcher Dealt
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GARY, Ind. — The Gary SouthShore RailCats have added another proven pitcher to their 2009 staff, today agreeing to terms with five-year veteran Edwin Walker. The RailCats also announced they have sold the contract of catcher Yuki Matsumoto to the Calgary Vipers of the Golden League.
Walker, 25, was originally a ninth round draft choice of the Brewers in 2002, but saw limited action in three years in the Milwaukee system. Drafted straight out of Highlands High School in San Antonio, Texas, Walker went 1-0 with a 1.69 ERA in his debut season but made just 24 more appearances the next two years and was out of baseball in 2005. Walker returned to the mound in 2006 with the San Angelo Colts of the United League, going 2-0 in six starts and posting a 5.14 ERA.
In 2008, Walker enjoyed a renaissance season in the Frontier League, where he went 5-3 with a miniscule 1.79 ERA for the Chillicothe Paints. The left-hander made 35 appearances out of the Chillicothe bullpen and allowed only 25 hits in 45.1 innings – opponents hit just .163 against him – and recorded 51 strikeouts. Walker gave up only nine earned runs all season and was selected to participate in the Frontier League All-Star Game in July.
This winter, Walker was signed by the Pittsburgh Pirates but was not assigned to a minor league affiliate. In his five pro seasons, the 6’4” Walker has allowed just 159 hits and recorded 160 strikeouts in 161.2 innings.
Matsumoto, 24, began his professional career with the RailCats last season after being signed by Manager Greg Tagert out of a tryout camp in California. A Takasaki, Japan native, Matsumoto appeared in 12 games for the ‘Cats in 2008 and batted .250 with three doubles and five RBIs.
The signing of Walker gives the RailCats 23 players under contract for the 2009 season, including 10 pitchers. The RailCats will have at least 28 players in camp when Spring Training begins May 1.
The RailCats begin the 2009 season at home Monday, May 18 at 7 p.m. against the Joliet JackHammers. Season tickets, group outings, mini-plans and flex tickets are now on sale by calling the RailCats at 219.882.2255. Don’t miss your chance to experience the RailCats Tradition of Excellence in 2009 at U. S. Steel Yard.
