It’s All in Your Head: Deion Walker Showing Maturity Beyond His Years

2021 was not kind to Deion Walker; in 80 at-bats, he managed a .200/.340/.300 slash line and an OPS of .640. Walker recently spoke with me about what his mind frame was like after the 21 season.

If there’s one Pirates’ prospect that isn’t very known in the system, it’s Deion Walker. I’ve recently started to get to know Walker and I can tell you that this dude is grinding his ass off to propel himself into recognition. pic.twitter.com/CZP86OgQsv

— Cody Potanko (@2HG013) February 3, 2022

“When I came home, I wasn’t satisfied at all,” said Walker. “I was angry, upset, and looking for someone or something to blame for how the year had gone. I stressed over everything except for what I could control, and that’s when I changed, I shut up and dug in.”

After that impassioned speech, I think we all wanted to know the details of how Walker changed and what he started to do differently. Some change diets, weight room routines, swings, and other things.

“After two weeks off, I went to the gym every single day except the occasional Sunday,” said Walker. “I began to meditate and do yoga every other day. I finally started to relax, and that’s what truly has changed; I’ve just stopped worrying. I’m now happy, competitive, relaxed, and happy with what I’m doing.”

Many people say Walker would do much better with some extra meat on his bones. Maybe if he adds a few more pounds, his potential could take off; Walker doesn’t see it like that.

“I went from 185 to 210 naturally, and don’t worry about my speed either; it should be just fine,” said Walker. The kind of player Walker aspires to be like is Ronald Acuna Jr. “I aspire to carry myself the way he does with the swagger and overall competitiveness,” said Walker.

Walker also wanted to mention how proud he is of himself for how far along he has come. As one of his own biggest critics, he told me that this is the first time he’s ever been this proud of himself. “I’m truly excited for 2022 not just with baseball, but with life,” said Walker.

Walker discussed his swing and approach in the box during the interview. There haven’t been big changes, but… I’ll just let Mr. Walker explain.

“I’ve traded the leg kick in for the toe tap. I really like the toe tap; I’m now vibing in the box. When the pitcher gathers, I gather. When the pitcher goes, I go,” said Walker.

Cool, calm, confident, and swag. Buzz words for the day. pic.twitter.com/JqMYeDJV0l

— Cody Potanko (@2HG013) February 15, 2022

Walker knows the challenge that is ahead of him coming into the 2022 season. At the age of 20, Walker is very mature for his age, recognizing that he can only control what he can control and not worrying about other factors is impressive. There is a ton of competition for that Bradenton outfield, but with a fresh mind and approach, Walker can contend.