The Pittsburgh Pirates have optioned third baseman Neil Walker to AAA Indianapolis.
Walker, 23, made improvements in camp, showing much more patience at the plate with seven walks but he still needs improvement on the offensive side of his game after batting.231 in spring training. Defensively he is major league ready.
The Pirates would have liked to keep Walker with the team for about another week but his major league service clock would have started if he remained on the roster.