Overview

• Manager Oli Marmol and hitting coach Brant Brown delivered unusually blunt assessments, citing insufficient cage work, series scouting and in-game adjustments, with Marmol calling for greater urgency.
• Walker is batting .218/.272/.309 with five home runs and a 31.7% strikeout rate over 331 plate appearances after interruptions for a wrist issue and an appendicitis absence.
• Responding to the criticism, Walker said he does not understand the “urgency” concern and pointed to his post–All-Star break two-week surge as proof he can find the right feel.
• With one option year remaining, the team is evaluating a Memphis stint next season as corner-outfield depth grows and front-office leadership shifts toward 2026 under Chaim Bloom.
• Recent dynamics include call-ups of Jimmy Crooks III and Cesar Prieto, Pedro Pages’ torrid August that reshaped the catching picture, and Yadier Molina’s return to offer mentorship in the dugout.