Tom Walker, father of former Pittsburgh Pirates 2B Neil Walker, dies
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Tom Walker, the father of former Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Neil Walker, has died, according to a statement made by the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday.
According to the team, Tom Walker signed with the Pirates in January of 1978 as a free agent, joining them for Spring Training before retiring that same year.
Tom Walker debuted in Major League Baseball with the Montreal Expos in 1972. He also spent time with the Detroit Tigers, St. Louis Cardinals and California Angels before making his way to the Steel City prior to the Pirates' World Series win in 1979.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Tom Walker today.
— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) October 23, 2023
A long-time resident of Pittsburgh, Tom was a part of our local alumni group and was always looking to make an impact on others in the Pittsburgh community.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Walker family,… pic.twitter.com/cU6nF4TsQX
What a wonderful man who helped raise a wonderful family. Well done, Tom Walker.
— Greg Brown (@gbrowniepoints) October 23, 2023
Rest in peace, my friend.
Thoughts & prayers for his dear wife, Carolyn, their children, Neil, Matt, Carrie & Sean, grandchildren & all his friends, family & loved ones. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/BToSsm1XwA
In six years in the MLB, Tom Walker compiled a 3.87 ERA with an 18-23 record as a starter. He even converted 11 save chances while being a closer early in his career with the Expos. Tom Walker struck out 262 batters in those six seasons and walked 142.
He was drafted ninth overall in the 1968 January Regular Phase draft.