The New York Yankees have decided not to pick up Anthony Rizzo’s $17 million club option for 2025. Instead, Rizzo will receive a $6 million buyout and hit free agency, marking the end of his tenure with the team.
Once a top-tier player in Major League Baseball, Rizzo’s performance has significantly declined over the past year and a half. In the last two seasons, he posted a .237/.315/.358 slash line, with 20 home runs and an 88 OPS+ over 710 at-bats.
With the Yankees searching for a potential upgrade at first base, one name that continues to surface is Christian Walker. According to MLB Trade Rumors, Walker is a top target for the team, with predictions suggesting he could sign a three-year, $60 million deal with New York.
While Walker’s age (he’s 33 and will turn 34 in Spring Training) limits him to a shorter contract, his stellar defense and consistent offensive production make him a strong fit for the Yankees.
MLB Trade Rumors notes that a three-year contract in the $20 million per year range is typical for players of Walker’s profile, citing similar deals for players like Edwin Encarnacion and Carlos Santana. Teams like the Astros, Mariners, Yankees, D-backs, Giants, and Nationals are expected to be in the mix for Walker’s services, with the Mets also potentially in the conversation depending on the future of Pete Alonso.
**Yankees’ First Base Situation a Key Concern**
The Yankees’ front office, still reeling from their loss in the 2024 World Series, is focusing on making key upgrades for next season. While re-signing Juan Soto remains the team’s top priority, improving at first base is another crucial area of focus.
As pointed out by Chris Kirschner of *The Athletic*, the Yankees’ collective .619 OPS at first base ranked dead last in the league, making it a significant weakness. Retaining Rizzo as the starting first baseman would be a mistake, and the team didn’t see enough from Ben Rice to entrust him with the job either. The Yankees are expected to explore both free agency and trade options to upgrade the position.
**What Christian Walker Could Bring to the Yankees**
Christian Walker, who’s emerged as one of the top free-agent targets, would be a perfect fit for Yankee Stadium. Known for his power, Walker has hit 95 home runs since 2022, fitting right into the Yankees’ home-run-heavy approach at the plate.
However, Walker isn’t just a power hitter. He’s posted a 123 OPS+ over the past two seasons and walks at an above-average rate. Despite being 33, his performance has shown no signs of decline, and he’s been a standout defensively, winning two Gold Glove Awards in the past three years.
Given his all-around game, Walker could be a game-changer for the Yankees as they look to improve their lineup and bolster their first base position heading into 2025.
