Photo Courtesy Of AP
A month ago today, the Mets dealt second baseman Neil Walker to the Milwaukee Brewers for a player to be named later. That player has been named, and it’s minor league RHP Eric Hanhold.
Hanhold, 23, had been a starting pitcher before this season. After going 2-12 in 19 starts last year, he shifted to the bullpen where he has enjoyed more success. This season he went 8-3 with a 3.94 ERA appearing in 30 games (three starts). In 64.0 innings he struck out 60 batters and walked 21, pitching to a 1.438 WHIP.
After settling in to the bullpen, he found his groove in the second half when he went 5-1 with a 1.53 ERA, striking out 32 in 17 games. The 6-foot-5, 220 pound righty could make his way up to the MLB bullpen soon if his recent success continues.
This goes along with the trend of Sandy Alderson stocking the minor leagues with young, powerful relievers. Meanwhile, Neil Walker has hit .268/.388/.465 with three home runs and five doubles in 23 games with the Brewers as they attempt to make the playoffs.
