Yankees Intensify Pursuit of Christian Walker Following Juan Soto Signing

The New York Yankees' interest in first baseman Christian Walker, initially reported last month, has gained momentum after Juan Soto's record-breaking $765 million contract with the Mets was finalized. According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Yankees renewed contract discussions with Walker's camp on Sunday evening, coinciding with the announcement of Soto's deal.


The Yankees swiftly shifted their focus to other position-player targets, highlighting their ability to pivot quickly in the market. This shift was evident when they signed pitcher Max Fried to an eight-year, $218 million deal, demonstrating their intent to strengthen the roster further with Soto no longer available. Adding Walker would address both the Yankees' need for first base help and overall lineup enhancement in one move.


Fried's signing also complicates the Yankees' pursuit of Walker or any other free agent who declined a qualifying offer. As New York was a luxury tax payer in 2024 and Fried had rejected the Braves' qualifying offer, the Yankees had to forfeit $1 million in international bonus pool money, as well as their second- and fifth-highest picks in the 2025 draft. Signing Walker would incur similar penalties: another $1 million in international pool funds and their third- and sixth-highest selections.