Jordan Walden (2008) selected to replace Mariano Rivera at All-Star game

Jordan Walden (Cedar Rapids Kernels – 2008) has been selected to fill in for the Yankees closer Mariano Rivera at the 82nd annual Major League All-Star game. Walden is 1-2 with 19 saves this season as a rookie with the Angels. He has a 2.95 ERA and has struck out 39 batters in 36 2/3 innings of work. Walden is three saves short of the Angels rookie record set by Ken Tatum in 1969. He joins Angels teammate and former Kernels second baseman Howard Kendrick (2004) on the American League All-Star squad.

Jordan Walden posted a 4-6 record with a 2.18 ERA and a 1.04 WHIP for the 2008 Kernels squad. Walden struck out 91 in 107 1/3 innings of work prior to a mid season call up. The 2008 Kernels finished 72-66 under manager Keith Johnson.