[4] In July 2009, Walker was inducted into the National College Baseball Hall of Fame in Lubbock, Texas.

[5] On April 14, 2017, Walker's uniform number 12 was retired by LSU at Alex Box Stadium, Skip Bertman Field.

In 2002, Walker enjoyed another fine year, hitting .299 with 11 HR and 64 RBIs and setting career highs with 42 doubles and 155 games played.

During 2003, Walker continued to provide consistent offense, hitting .283 with 13 HR and setting a career high with 85 RBIs.

On September 23 that year, with the Red Sox trailing the Baltimore Orioles 5-2 in the ninth inning, Walker hit a two-out, two-strike, three-run home run off Jorge Julio to tie the game.

Over the next three seasons, Walker attempted to maintain his offensive performance with the Cubs, but found himself playing less and platooning with younger players.

At the end of July 2006, the San Diego Padres were attempting to make the playoffs while the Cubs were already out of the race.

However, during the offseason, the Padres had restocked the team with more infielders and left-handed hitters and, after a poor performance during the exhibition season, Walker was released on March 27.