With Juan Soto removed from the board, the Yankees resumed contract talks with free agent first baseman Christian Walker on Sunday night, the Post reported.
Walker isn't the only player the Yankees are looking to trade in free agency.
And the Yankees are looking to reallocate some of the money they offered Soto after the hard-hitting outfielder opted to leave the pinstripes on the Mets' 15-year, $765 million package, so they're looking to redistribute some of the money they offered Soto to pitchers and It challenges batters to multiple tasks.
Despite this, Walker is a player the Yankees are interested in more than just a glance. And adding Walker may have a side benefit.
If the season started today, Ben Rice would be the first baseman. If the Yankees are able to acquire Walker, it could make it easier for Rice to participate in trade talks for players like Garrett Crochet.
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Walker is not a good fit for the Yankees. It would have been better if he was a left-handed swinger. He turns 34 in March and is likely to sign a contract for at least three years.
However, Walker has won the National League Gold Glove Award three times in the past, reflecting his defensive excellence.
Over the past three seasons, Walker has hit 95 home runs and over 123 OPS, while Pete Alonso has hit over 120 home runs and over 131 OPS, compared to Walker (11.4) who is a great defender and runner. His WAR (10.2) is low. .
Walker also has a reputation for being a great clubhouse presence.
