Walker’s offseason plans and spring training with Maz

Pirates second baseman Neil Walker had a live web chat for fans on Monday at 3 PM. Here are a few of the questions. You can read the entire chat transcript here.

You said you were “at a loss for words” after hitting your first Major League home run. Now that it’s been several months later, can you describe the feeling you had rounding the bases in front of your hometown crowd and family?

Neil Walker: Obviously, I was extremely elated after hitting my first home run at PNC Park. It has been my dream to put on a Pirates uniform since I was five years old, and to think back now on what was going through my head as I was rounding the bases, I was just sort of floating off the ground and nothing was even going through my head. The fact that we won and seeing how excited that my teammates were for me made it all the more enjoyable. But to be able to share that moment with the city of Pittsburgh was an extremely special moment for me.

Congrats on the amazing rookie season. What impact do you believe Clint Hurdle will have on the team this upcoming year?

Neil Walker: Speaking with Clint and knowing his background, I believe that he’ll bring strong character to this team and I’m very excited to get to work come this Spring Training. He has shown with his time in Colorado that he’s found a way to bring a team together and win baseball games on a regular basis. I believe he can do the same here in Pittsburgh.

Will you be working with Bill Mazeroski in Spring Training on turning the double plays at second base?

Neil Walker: Yes, I will get an opportunity to work with Maz this Spring Training. Every year, he comes down and works with the infielders and does a tremendous job. But more so, to hear him speak about his playing days, especially his World Series season, is something that I think all players cherish.

Do you do any offseason workouts?

Neil Walker: Yes, I have a workout schedule each week that consists of four days a week. Lifting weights, hitting, cardio, are all things that I focus on during the offseason, as well as rest and relaxation.