The New York Yankees are still looking for first base help on the trade market, and while they aren’t close to making any moves right now, there are some more plausible candidates. According to industry sources, Christian Walker is regarded as the “most likely fit” by Bryan Hoch of MLB.com in his most recent newsletter. The Yankees and Walker had significant discussions at the Winter Meetings, but conversations cooled when Kyle Tucker became available in trade talks, but now that the Cubs have him from the Astros, perhaps these talks will resume.
Last week, Jack Curry of the YES Network stated that the Yankees could revisit these talks, as the two sides made significant headway on an agreement during their original discussions in Dallas.
Why Christian Walker Might Be The Yankees’ Best Bet at First Base
Christian Walker hit 26 home runs in 130 games with the Arizona Diamondbacks last season, and he was once again a standout defensive first baseman. Walker has at least 3.0 fWAR, 25 home runs, and 10 outs over average over the last three seasons, giving the Yankees with much-needed all-around value. Last season, the Yankees had a -1.1 fWAR and a 76 wRC+ at first base, and if they want to run an offence as good as last year’s, they’ll need to use a circular offence.
The Yankees make a lot of sense for Walker as well; they prepared a very aggressive offer in the hopes of closing a deal during the Winter Meetings because he fills every necessity at the position. New York is a city where the star first baseman can win a championship, as the Yankees play in an American League devoid of a truly dominant force to fear. The Red Sox, Tigers, and Orioles have youthful rosters with high-potential talent, so any move can disturb the pecking order.
The Red Sox acquired Garrett Crochet last week in a blockbuster deal with the Chicago White Sox, and the Yankees responded with a shocking trade for closer Devin Williams. Brian Cashman must address the offence if he wants to develop a true contender capable of not only winning the American League East but also competing with the Dodgers and the National League’s elite teams.
Juan Soto’s retirement left a power hole in the Yankees’ offence, and while Christian Walker’s age is an issue, his strong bat and consistent output at first base undoubtedly aid their cause. The other concern is the Qualifying Offer, which will deprive the Yankees of draft picks and International Free Agent money since they exceed the Luxury Tax’s fourth barrier. Brian Cashman appears to be eager to make deals, and Hal Steinbrenner will need to sign on if they want to bring a title to the Bronx.
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