Official announcement from the Houston Astros or MLB.com

3-Time Gold Glove Winner Christian Walker Signs Three-Year, $60 Million Deal With Houston Astros, Pending Physical

Dec 20, 2024, 05:54 PM

Free agent first baseman Christian Walker has agreed to a three-year, $60 million contract with the Houston Astros, pending a physical. The deal, which was reported by multiple sources, marks a significant acquisition for the Astros as they look to bolster their lineup. Walker, a three-time Gold Glove winner who previously played for the Arizona Diamondbacks, brings a strong offensive presence with 26 home runs and 84 RBIs in 130 games last season, along with elite glove work. He has hit 95 home runs since 2022 and ranks fifth among primary first basemen with 11.4 WAR in that period. His signing is expected to have ripple effects, potentially signaling the end of Alex Bregman's tenure with the Astros, as the team plans to position Walker at first base and Isaac Paredes at third. Walker's addition aims to improve the Astros' performance at first base, a position that struggled last season.