✓ Link copied to clipboard!
The New York Yankees have long been seen as the favorites to land Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Christian Walker in free agency. Why? Because the two parties are a dream pairing.
The Bronx Bombers moved on from Anthony Rizzo to kick off the offseason. To replace him, they’re likely looking for an affordable slugger who plays good defense at first base. Manager Aaron Boone’s infield defense was horrible last season.
Walker was projected to sign a three-year, $60 million deal this winter. That’s definitely something in the Yankees’ price range. Walker is also a multi-time Gold Glove winner with a .813 OPS over the last three seasons.
The matchup was perfect for both parties, but not only was Walker left negotiating with other teams, but reports have begun indicating these negotiations are progressing right under the Yankees’ nose. In fact, a deal reportedly was in place Friday to send Walker to one of the Yankees’ biggest rivals.
According to FanSided’s MLB insider Robert Murray, Walker and the Houston Astros were in “advanced talks on a contract.” One source said the talks were “on the 10-yard line,” per Mark Feinsand of MLB.com.
Shortly after these reports emerged, Jim Bowden of The Athletic reported Walker had agreed to a deal with the Astros, pending a physical. Bob Nightengale of the New York Post reported it’s a three-year, $60 million deal,.
Walker would head to Houston to play first base while trade acquisition Isaac Paredes would slot in at third base. This would signal the end of Alex Bregman’s career with the Astros.
Houston would get a solution at first base following a few years of disastrous play at the position.
More MLB: Padres Predicted To Win $6 Million Bidding War With Dodgers For Phenom
The post Yankees $60 Million Dream Free Agent Reportedly Agrees To Deal With Hated Rival appeared first on Newsweek.
