The New York Yankees will need to find a way to offset the production they’ll lose with outfielder Juan Soto’s departure from their 2025 lineup.
One option could involve acquiring Christian Walker to serve as the team’s starting first baseman. New York’s infield remains uncertain, with second baseman Gleyber Torres and first baseman Anthony Rizzo both entering free agency.
First base was a significant weakness in 2024, as five players combined to generate -1.1 WAR, per FanGraphs. Walker would provide a major improvement for manager Aaron Boone, offering versatility and proven success on the field.
The three-time Gold Glove winner has averaged 32 home runs, 29 doubles, 94 RBI, and 81 runs scored with an .814 OPS over the past three seasons.
At 33 years old, Walker has been rumored as a fit for the Yankees multiple times since free agency began. FanSided’s Michael Brakebill believes Walker could indeed be headed to New York, noting that the Yankees could solidify their roster by trading for Cody Bellinger and signing Walker.
Brakebill points out that adding Walker to a lineup likely featuring Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and Bellinger would give the Yankees a well-rounded and powerful offensive core. Walker has totaled 95 home runs and 285 RBIs over the last three seasons while maintaining his Gold Glove-winning status.
Spotrac predicts that Walker will sign a three-year, $66 million deal this offseason.
