Duke Welker Promoted to Altoona

Along with the promotion of Victor Black to high-A Bradenton, the Pittsburgh Pirates have also promoted right handed reliever Duke Welker from Bradenton to Altoona.  Welker has put up a strong season in Bradenton, with a 2.25 ERA in 52 innings, along with a 7.1 K/9 and a 4.3 BB/9 ratio.  In the past year he’s displayed a 98 MPH fastball, although control has been a big issue, with almost a walk an inning during the 2010 season.  Welker got those control numbers down to a more respectable range, although it’s still high.  The 6′ 7″, 220 pound right hander is 25 years old, but due to his high velocity, he’s definitely a prospect.