Win One For Taijuan

In his first start with the Mets, veteran starter Taijuan Walker used this ball to record a strikeout of Jesus Aguilar. Walker tossed six strong innings but it took a Mets rally in the 9th inning for a New York win. This image is of Walker from that game. Walker more than did his part in the first half of the 2021 season as he was named an All-Star for the first time in his career with a 7-3 record and 2.66 ERA with 95 strikeouts and only 30 walks. Walker was overwhelmed with well wishes after receiving the news. “Trying to hold back the tears,” said Walker. “My mom called. She’s crying. … My whole career I’ve had a lot of support from friends and family and it means so much to me.” Walker faded down the stretch but had a strong 2022 season posting a 12-5 record with a 3.49 ERA and 146 strikeouts against only 55 walks.