Christian Walker Emerges as Top Target for New York Yankees at First Base

The New York Yankees are actively seeking a new first baseman for the 2025 season, and Christian Walker has emerged as a top target. Following the decline of Anthony Rizzo’s $17 million club option and his subsequent entry into free agency, the Yankees are exploring various options to fill the void at first base.

Christian Walker, a 34-year-old first baseman, is highly regarded for his both offensive and defensive prowess. He had a strong 2024 season with the Arizona Diamondbacks, hitting 26 home runs in 130 games with a .251/.335/.468 slash line and an OPS above .800 for the third consecutive year. Walker also boasts impressive defensive credentials, having led the position in Defensive Runs Saved (+33), Outs Above Average (+39), and Fielding Run Value (+29).

The Yankees, who struggled defensively at first base last season with -2 Defensive Runs Saved and 0 Outs Above Average, see Walker as a potential solution to their run prevention issues. His addition could help the Yankees form one of the best defensive infields in the sport, especially if they retain players like Jazz Chisholm and Anthony Volpe at their projected positions.

Walker’s offensive capabilities are also attractive to the Yankees. He has the 11th most home runs in baseball over the last three seasons (95) and has shown improved quality of contact, swing decisions, and contact rates. This suggests he could have an even better season in 2025, potentially reaching a wRC+ of 125 or 130.

The Yankees are not the only team interested in Walker; the Mets, Nationals, and Diamondbacks are also in the mix. However, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Yankees plan to aggressively pursue Walker, making him a key target in their offseason strategy.

While Walker’s age and potential contract length are considerations, his value as a three-time Gold Glove winner with 30-home run potential makes him an ideal fit for the Yankees’ needs at first base. The team’s financial outlook, however, remains uncertain due to their pursuit of other high-profile free agents like Juan Soto).