On Tuesday night, the New York Yankees wrapped up a major trade with the Chicago Cubs, acquiring outfielder Cody Bellinger. Bellinger is expected to step right into the Yankees’ lineup as their new center fielder.
So, what’s the next move for New York? According to FanSided’s Chris Landers, a “dream lineup” for manager Aaron Boone and the Yankees should include one clear addition: Christian Walker, the free-agent first baseman from the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Landers argues that Walker is the ideal choice due to his consistency as a strong hitter and his ability to provide a defensive upgrade—a crucial consideration following the way the last World Series concluded.
At 33 years old, Walker would likely come at a lower cost than other top names like Anthony Santander, who would require a position change, or Pete Alonso, whose contract demands might make him out of reach.
Walker offers the perfect balance between affordability and productivity, with an impressive glove and the potential for an .800 OPS with power at the plate.
Adding him would complete what could become a surprisingly deep Yankees roster in 2025, and it’s clear that Walker represents the ideal addition over other rumored options.