Walking to Miami

After spending 2018 as a Yankee, Neil Walker followed the path many New Yorkers have taken over the decades -- moving to South Florida. His new address won't be Boca Del Vista or West Palm Beach -- but 501 Marlins Way in Miami.

A starter during his days with the Pirates and Mets, the 10-year veteran slid into a super utility role last season -- in part, because he failed to supply the offensive punch the Yanks expected. Signed during March, midway through Spring Training, the Pittsburgh native never found his groove, hitting under .200 for much of the first half, before finishing at a career-worst .219.

Walker will bring veteran leadership to a young Marlins club entering the second year of Derek Jeter's rebuild. He'll likely backup or fill in at several positions. This year, with a full spring training, Walker won't have to play "catch up," and might also show enough to not only contribute -- but to become a useful July trade chip.

(My image of Walker is from the Yankees/Tigers game on September 1st, 2018.)

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