MLB Spring Training 2015: 5 Second Basemen To Watch
By DJ Smith
5. Neil Walker
Sep 25, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Neil Walker (18) hits a two-run home run in the eighth inning of their game against the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field. The Pirates won 10-1. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Neil Walker, along with Andrew McCutchen were the two most dangerous hitters in the Pirates lineup in 2014 which helped them make the playoffs for the second straight season. Walker was a dangerous hitter to face for pitchers last season, as he hit just two more doubles (25) than home runs (23) safe to say he was a hitter who found the gap often.
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In 2015 you can expect Walker to average about .275 BA, 20+ home runs, and 30+ XBH, which is what he averaged in the past three seasons. Will that be enough to lead the Pirates to yet another playoff berth? That’s still to be determined with an improved division, the Pirates now have to fight for every win if they want to earn a postseason birth.