As the offseason unfolds, the New York Yankees’ front office has found itself in a familiar position—forced to pivot in response to shifting dynamics on the free-agent market. The latest setback for the Yankees came with the news that power-hitting first baseman Christian Walker , a key target for the Bronx Bombers, has signed a deal with the Houston Astros. This unexpected turn of events has put the Yankees in a difficult position, requiring them to reassess their approach to filling key holes on the roster as they head into the 2024 season.
Walker, who has been a steady force for the Arizona Diamondbacks over the past few seasons, had long been rumored to be a prime target for the Yankees. With a potent bat that has averaged 30+ home runs in recent seasons, combined with a reputation as one of the top defensive first basemen in the game, Walker seemed like the perfect fit for a Yankees team seeking to add both power and stability to its lineup. His departure to the Astros, however, means that the Yankees will now need to look elsewhere to fill their first base or designated hitter spot.
Christian Walker’s Impact on the Yankees’ Offseason Plans
Christian Walker’s signing by the Astros is a significant development not just for Houston, but for the Yankees as well. The 32-year-old first baseman has established himself as one of the top all-around players at his position in recent seasons, earning a Gold Glove award in 2023 and finishing in the top 20 for National League MVP voting. His ability to hit for power—he posted 36 home runs and a .817 OPS last season—made him an attractive option for a Yankees team that has been looking to add another big bat to complement Aaron Judge in the middle of their lineup.
For the Yankees, acquiring Walker would have served multiple purposes. First, his power bat would have helped balance the lineup, providing additional pop to a team that struggled with consistency in its offensive attack last season. Walker’s ability to play solid defense at first base also could have allowed the Yankees to shift Anthony Rizzo, who struggled with injuries in 2023, into a more versatile role as a designated hitter or occasional first baseman. The Yankees also hoped that Walker’s presence would address their need for a reliable middle-of-the-order bat—something that became increasingly apparent as the team battled offensive struggles during their 2023 postseason run.
With Walker now off the market, the Yankees’ front office is left scrambling to reassess their plans. While they have other options on the table, the loss of Walker—who was viewed as one of the best available first base/DH targets—could force them to alter their approach to free agency and potential trades. The Yankees have long been one of the most aggressive teams in the offseason, and this setback is unlikely to deter them from exploring other avenues to improve their roster. Still, the challenge is now to find an alternative that fits the needs of the team.
Alternative Options for the Yankees
Despite the loss of Walker, the Yankees still have several avenues to explore to bolster their offense in 2024. The first base and designated hitter spots remain positions of need, and the team will likely turn to both free agency and the trade market in search of an upgrade. Several potential targets now stand out as alternatives to Walker, including both established stars and younger, emerging players.
1. Josh Bell
One of the most immediate free-agent options for the Yankees is Josh Bell, a 31-year-old switch-hitter who has provided consistent power throughout his career. Bell has been a reliable producer, hitting 20 or more home runs in six of the past seven seasons. His combination of on-base skills and power would be a great fit for the Yankees’ lineup, especially as a switch hitter who can work from both sides of the plate. Bell’s ability to play both first base and serve as a designated hitter would provide manager Aaron Boone with flexibility in structuring his lineup.
While Bell may not offer the same level of defensive prowess as Walker, he would still be a significant upgrade to the Yankees’ offense. His power numbers are similar to those of Walker, and Bell’s ability to get on base with a career .350 on-base percentage makes him an appealing option for the Yankees, who need to improve their contact and plate discipline as much as they do their power numbers.
2. Matt Olson (Trade Target)
Another potential target for the Yankees, albeit more difficult to acquire, is Atlanta Braves’ first baseman Matt Olson. Olson, a two-time Gold Glove winner, has been one of the most productive sluggers in baseball over the past few years. He finished 2023 with 41 home runs and 103 RBIs, earning his second consecutive Silver Slugger award at first base. Given his elite power and ability to play excellent defense, Olson would be a perfect fit for the Yankees—assuming they can pull off a trade for him.
However, acquiring Olson would likely require a substantial package of prospects or major league-ready talent. The Braves have a well-balanced roster and are unlikely to move Olson unless they’re blown away by an offer. But if the Yankees are serious about adding another superstar to their lineup, Olson could be a player they target on the trade market.
3. Justin Turner (Free Agent)
While primarily known for his tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers, 39-year-old Justin Turner remains a potent bat in the middle of the lineup. Turner’s production remained solid in 2023, where he hit 26 home runs and posted a .805 OPS. Though he is primarily a third baseman, Turner’s ability to slot in as a designated hitter or even a first baseman makes him a viable target for the Yankees.
Though Turner isn’t the same power hitter he once was, his on-base skills and clutch hitting—coupled with his leadership in the clubhouse—would be a valuable addition for New York. If the Yankees are looking to fill a short-term hole while providing some veteran presence, Turner could be an ideal stopgap option.
4. Pete Alonso (Trade Target)
If the Yankees decide to make a major trade to acquire a star slugger, Mets’ first baseman Pete Alonso could be an intriguing option. Alonso, who has led the National League in home runs in two of the last three seasons, is one of the game’s most dangerous power hitters. Though the Mets are unlikely to trade him, Alonso’s name has popped up in rumors over the past year due to the team’s ongoing retooling. If the Yankees can strike a deal for him, Alonso’s elite power could provide the offensive boost they’re looking for.
Looking Ahead: Yankees’ Offseason Strategy
While losing out on Christian Walker is a setback for the Yankees, it also presents an opportunity for the team to adapt and explore alternative options that could ultimately be even more beneficial in the long term. Whether through free agency or trade, the Yankees will need to be strategic in how they address their offensive needs, with particular attention paid to the first base and designated hitter positions.
For now, the Yankees’ front office will likely intensify its efforts to secure a power bat to complement Aaron Judge and anchor the middle of the lineup. With the 2024 season on the horizon, New York remains one of the most active teams in the MLB offseason, and this recent setback may only fuel their determination to put together a championship-caliber roster.
