dailyloe.com – The San Francisco Giants have demoted reliever Ryan Walker to Triple-A Sacramento following a series of ineffective outings. This decision came after Walker’s fourth consecutive game in which he allowed at least one run.
In addition to Walker, the Giants optioned right-hander Gregory Santos to Sacramento. They activated lefty Sam Hentges from his rehabilitation assignment and called up righty Dylan Smith from Triple-A.
Walker started the season as the Giants’ primary closer, having led the team with 17 saves last season. However, after saving two games against the Los Angeles Dodgers, his performance declined significantly.
In his last four appearances, Walker allowed seven runs on nine hits and issued four walks in just 3⅓ innings. His struggles included two blown saves, culminating in a loss against Pittsburgh where he allowed two runs and retired only two batters.
These performances raised Walker’s ERA to 6.46, prompting the Giants to send him down. Manager Tony Vitello expressed that he believes Walker needs to regain his confidence, hoping a stint in the minors will facilitate that process.
Vitello remarked, “He’s the same guy skill-wise… I think our pitching coaches identified some things physically that he’s strayed from that when he’s been at his best.” He emphasized that the issue begins with Walker’s mindset and the information he is processing.
Hentges, who was signed as a free agent, began the season on the injured list. His return may provide additional support to the Giants’ bullpen.
