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Bob Walk: We Are Not As Good On Paper Without Burnett

PITTSBURGH (93-7 The Fan)- Pirates broadcaster and former pitcher Bob Walk joined "The Cook and Poni Show" Thursday morning to discuss the decision by A.J. Burnett to sign a one-year, $16 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies.

"Not surprised it happened," Walk said. "I knew if he wanted to make money he was going to have to go elsewhere."

Walk admits he was surprised that he signed with the Phillies over teams even closer to him like the Orioles or Nationals.

Bob tells the guys that he thinks he is still valuable and will be great for the Phillies. He says it's a loss to the Pirates.

"We are not as good now as we were going to be at least on paper," Walk said.

Walk said not getting the ball in Game 5 of the NLDS in St. Louis probably really played a role in Burnett's decision. He wanted to return to the Pirates, but he was not going to do it for a discount.

"I'm not going to sugarcoat anything. We are a better team if A.J. is pitching for us," Walk said. "But, he took the $16 million and left so now there are opportunities for others and there are guys here that can fill that role."

Bob tells the guys it's not time to hit the panic button because there are guys who can fill the role. Walk said Gerrit Cole has all of the signs to be the guy who will be the ace of this team.

Listen to the full interview here:

Pirates Broadcaster Bob Walk: We Are Not As Good on Paper Without Burnett

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