The Houston Astros have made a significant offseason move by signing free agent first baseman Christian Walker to a three-year, $60 million deal, according to reports from USA Today’s Bob Nightengale. Walker, who previously played for the Arizona Diamondbacks, is known for his defensive skills, having won Gold Gloves in the past three seasons.
In the 2024 season, Walker hit 26 home runs and maintained a .251 batting average, showcasing his offensive abilities as well. The Astros’ acquisition of Walker suggests that free agent third baseman Alex Bregman may not return to the team.
This signing is a culmination of Walker’s baseball journey, marked by his power hitting prowess since his high school days in Pennsylvania. After a slow start in the major leagues with the Baltimore Orioles, Walker found success with the Diamondbacks, eventually becoming their everyday first baseman.
With Walker solidifying the infield, the Astros now face uncertainties in the outfield following the trade of Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs. Manager Joe Espada is considering reducing Yordan Alvarez’s outfield appearances to ensure his durability. The team may need to make further additions to strengthen the outfield and improve their offense for the upcoming season.
Overall, Walker’s addition to the Astros roster brings a mix of offensive and defensive capabilities, setting the stage for an exciting 2025 season.