The New York Yankees face several key roster needs heading into the offseason, with first base being one of the most pressing. After allowing veteran Anthony Rizzo to depart in free agency, the Yankees are looking to fill that gap with a solid addition.
There are a few strong first base options available, including New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso and Arizona Diamondbacks veteran Christian Walker. Alonso is expected to secure a six-year, $174 million deal, while Walker is projected to land a three-year, $66 million contract.
Recently, FanSided’s Jacob Mountz advocated for the Yankees to pursue Walker this winter. Mountz highlighted several reasons why the Yankees should target the Diamondbacks’ first baseman as their top option.
“Right now, it seems the Yankees are very likely to sign Christian Walker. Walker is a top defender at first base, has 30+ home run potential, and, most importantly, won’t break the bank,” Mountz wrote. “The Yankees see Walker as the best bang-for-the-buck option.
In 2024, Walker posted a .251/.335/.468/.803 slash line with 26 home runs in 479 at-bats during an injury-plagued season with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The previous two years, he hit 36 and 33 home runs, respectively. Defensively, Walker is one of the best at first base, having earned three consecutive Gold Gloves.”
Walker is the perfect fit for the Yankees. He’s affordable while offering the defensive stability Aaron Boone needs at first base. Beyond his defensive prowess, Walker has the ability to hit 30+ home runs and put up elite OPS numbers. His only notable drawback is his age, but that’s never been a deterrent for the Yankees in free agency.
