The New York Mets made their two-year free-agent deal with right-hander Taijuan Walker official on Saturday.
Walker’s contract, for a reported $20 million, includes a third-year option.
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In a corresponding move, right-handed pitcher Noah Syndergaard was placed on the 60-day injured list, opening a spot on the 40-man roster.
Walker posted a 4-3 record and 2.70 ERA with the Seattle Mariners and Toronto Blue Jays in 2020. He had 50 strikeouts in 53 1/3 innings.
The 28-year-old will enter spring training vying for the No. 5 starter job in the Mets’ rotation.
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With Noah Syndergaard out until at least June as he recovers from Tommy John surgery performed nearly one year ago, the Mets are set to open the season with Jacob deGrom, Carlos Carrasco, Marcus Stroman and David Peterson in the rotation.
Walker has a career record of 35-34 with the Mariners (2013-16 and 2020), Arizona Diamondbacks (2017-19) and Blue Jays (2020). He had Tommy John surgery in 2018 after three starts for the Diamondbacks.
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The Yucaipa, Calif., native was the Mariners’ first-round selection (43rd overall) in the 2010 MLB draft.
–Field Level Media