5 Mets players already in danger of losing their 40-man roster spot

4) Josh Walker

The last two players on this list do have minor league options and yet it might not be enough to save them from making the front page of MLB Trade Rumors for the worst reasons. Josh Walker, now 29 with only 10 innings of MLB experience, is one of those optional relievers who might not be good enough to hold onto.

The lefty showed some positive signs at times last year. The 1.84 ERA in the minors was too good to ignore showcasing him in the majors. Unfortunately, he pitched to an 8.10 ERA in his 10 innings while in the show.

Walker becomes a roster casualty as the Mets look to add outside help. He becomes one more so when the team reports to St. Lucie and roster cuts begin to take place. Several of those outside additions made by Stearns this offseason are on minor league deals. DFA’ing Walker is one way to get them onto the major league roster.

Injured throughout much of his professional career, Walker only recently transitioned into a relief role full-time. His lack of control has held him back in the past. His superb strikeout rate does help make up for it a little bit.

There’s a good case to keep Walker around. What might ultimately seal his fate is if Stearns and the coaching staff don’t think he’s even worth another look.