The New York Yankees have been connected to first baseman in recent months. At 33 years old, He isn’t the youngest option, but his strong career performance makes him an appealing candidate to strengthen the middle of the Yankees’ lineup.
The team also needs a replacement for Anthony Rizzo. While there are prospects in their farm system and other first basemen available, Walker might be the best choice. He isn’t expected to command a massive contract and brings valuable experience, which is crucial for a team aiming for a World Series title.
Mark Feinsand of MLB.com recently noted Walker’s suitability for the Yankees, citing their struggles at first base in 2024.
“The Yankees’ .619 OPS from their first basemen in 2024 was the lowest in the AL, so figuring out an answer at the position will be on New York’s to-do list. Walker is the best all-around first baseman on the market, hitting 95 home runs since the start of 2022 while winning three straight Gold Glove Awards,” Feinsand wrote on November 25.
Contract Considerations
One concern for the Yankees is how Walker’s age might affect the length of his contract. A shorter deal, such as two years, could be the safest approach. If Walker performs well during that time, the Yankees could re-sign him to another short-term agreement.
Zachary Roberts of Sportskeeda predicted Walker could sign a three-year, $58 million deal with the Yankees.
“Christian Walker is the best first baseman available this year. He’s a Gold Glove-caliber fielder with a good bat. While the Yankees might have a lot of money tied up in other free agents, it’s hard to ignore how good of a fit he’d be,” Roberts wrote on November 25.
Yankees Considering Walker As a ‘Back-Up Plan’
The New York Yankees’ primary focus this offseason isn’t on upgrading at first base but on re-signing Juan Soto. However, improving the position remains on their radar, and they could consider pursuing Christian Walker if there’s room in the budget after securing Soto.
If Soto doesn’t return, the Yankees reportedly have a contingency plan involving Walker. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, this plan includes multiple significant moves.
“If the New York Yankees don’t re-sign Juan Soto, one back-up plan floating around is signing free-agent first baseman Christian Walker, sign either Willy Adames or Alex Bregman to play third, shift Jazz Chisholm to second base, trade for Cubs center fielder Cody Bellinger, and then use the extra money to sign Burnes, Fried or Snell,” Nightengale reported on November 25.
While this ambitious plan would reshape the roster, it’s debatable whether it would surpass the impact of retaining Soto, one of the best hitters in baseball.
Regardless of the scenario, adding Walker would be a smart move for the Yankees.
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