Mets free agent battle: Pete Alonso vs. Christian Walker

The Mets' case for signing Christian Walker

While the allure of a high-profile signing may be tempting, Christian Walker presents a compelling case as a reliable and cost-effective option. The veteran first baseman enters free agency after posting a .251/.335/.468/.803 offensive line with 26 home runs and 84 RBIs in 479 at-bats.

Walker has proven to be a consistent offensive contributor, providing power and a solid on-base percentage. Unlike Alonso, a key aspect of Walker's profile is his defense. In terms of Outs Above Average, Walker ranked second among MLB first basemen only to Carlos Santana and prevented around 10 net runs according to Statcast.

Additionally, compared to other high-profile free agents like Alonso, Walker is a more affordable option in terms of commitment in years and money. Signing him would allow the Mets to allocate resources to other areas of need, such as pitching or bolstering their bullpen.

Meanwhile, Walker's performance has been inconsistent throughout his career. While he has had some impressive seasons, he has also experienced periods of significant decline. Likewise, his clearance of the strike zone has decreased and an increase in his strikeout percentage is observed in 2024 due to a decrease in his aggressiveness at the plate.

Also, as Walker enters his late 30s, the risk of decline becomes more evident. While he may still be productive for a few more years, relying on him as a mid-term solution could be a risky strategy.

While Walker may not possess the same star power as Alonso, his consistent performance, defensive versatility, and affordability make him a strong candidate to fill the Mets' first base. By signing Walker, the Mets can solidify their lineup and improve their chances of postseason success.