Breaking: Astros’ Lineup Gets Powerful Boost With $60M Infielder
The Houston Astros are looking for an upgrade at first base this winter.
After opening the season with veteran José Abreu at the position and subsequently releasing him, the team has the chance to add a power hitter to their lineup by upgrading with a free agent. And while they’ve been tied to the most accomplished first baseman on the market in Pete Alonso, Zachary Rymer of Bleacher Report predicted they could go a different route.
“The Astros badly need to upgrade at first base, and (Christian) Walker isn’t just an ideal option with regard to his bat and glove,” Rymer wrote, predicting that Walker would reject his qualifying offer from the Arizona Diamondbacks and sign a three-year, $60 million deal instead. “With money seemingly at a premium right now, he’s a much better fit for the club’s payroll situation than Alonso.”
Walker is a three-time Gold Glove Award winner and has hit at least 26 homers in each of the last three seasons. In his 2024 campaign, he slashed .251/.335/.468 with 84 RBI, making him one of the best power hitters on the market this winter.
He earned $10.9 million this past season in his final year of arbitration eligibility and at $60 million over three years, Rymer’s projection for his next deal would mark a significant discount over the contract that Alonso is likely to get.
That kind of deal could make Walker a steal for the Astros in this scenario.
“Christian Walker has a compelling underdog story to tell,” Rymer added. “Arguably, he didn’t become a proper star until 2022. Now he’s the best all-around first baseman on the open market. Teams that turn to him will want him not just for his 30-homer power, but also for excellent defense that just won him a third Gold Glove.”
The Astros have some big offseason questions to answer, particularly around free agent Alex Bregman. But as the team looks to extend its playoff streak for another season, an upgrade at first base with Walker could offer a boost.
