Christian Walker Draws Interest from Yankees and Mariners as Free Agency Heats Up

Christian Walker, a marquee first baseman, is set to be a hot commodity in free agency this offseason. Though his contract likely won't match that of Pete Alonso due to age differences—Walker is 33, four years older than Alonso—his recent performance makes him highly desirable. Walker hit 26 home runs in 130 games last season, maintaining an OPS above .800 for the third consecutive year, and won his third straight Gold Glove.

The New York Yankees are among the teams interested in Walker. However, MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi has identified another potential suitor: the Seattle Mariners. During Wednesday's edition of Hot Stove, Morosi remarked, "I think for [Walker] on a three- or maybe even a four-year deal, with the defensive value that he brings and the power, I think Walker and the Mariners, that is one of the pairings that I'm watching very carefully potentially in the days ahead."

The Mariners had solid production from their first basemen this season, with their 115 wRC+ ranking eighth-best at the position. Yet, their top producers—Justin Turner, who is now a free agent, and Luke Raley, primarily an outfielder—leave room for an upgrade. While Alonso has outpaced Walker in home runs over the past three seasons (120 to 95), Walker's defensive prowess sets him apart. Walker's defensive metrics, as measured by outs above average, are vastly superior to Alonso's (36 to minus-16).

​As the offseason progresses, both the Yankees and Mariners will be closely watching Walker, whose blend of power and defense makes him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their first base position.