3) Christian Walker
But wait, he’s not a free agent…
Christian Walker was competing last offseason alongside Pete Alonso. Viewed as the older, more defensively gifted but less powerful first base option for the Mets, he signed for a relatively modest 3-year deal worth $60 million spread evenly. A three-time Gold Glove winner from 2022-2024, he’s someone the Houston Astros could conceivably move this offseason to free up some payroll space.
A suggested swap put together on MLB Trade Rumors had the Mets and Astros swapping Walker for Sean Manaea. Money might need to change hands as well with Manaea owed $5 million per year more.
Even if we were to come up with a different trade scenario, Walker feels to fit the mindset of the Mets. He’s a shorter commitment and while he hit only .238 last year, it’s only 13 points below his career numbers with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
His defense took a nosedive but was still positive. Worth 2 OAA after three consecutive seasons over 10, he is for sure a rebound candidate, but is he the right one?
Verdict: This only happens if the money makes sense for both ball clubs and the Mets’ biggest addition comes in a corner outfield spot.
