The Houston Astros have made another significant move, signing experienced player, according to multiple reports. the gifted player and the Astros have agreed to a three-year, $60 million deal, as reported by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale. The 33-year-old was one of the top free agents this winter and has earned three Gold Gloves in as many seasons, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top first basemen.
Despite missing all of August due to an oblique strain, he posted a solid .251/.335/.468 slash line with 26 home runs and 84 RBIs over 130 games for the Arizona Diamondbacks. His final numbers were nearly identical to the career-high marks that helped lead Arizona to the 2023 World Series. Over the past three seasons, Walker has consistently delivered strong production, with each season featuring similar slash lines and an OPS above .800. While he may not match Pete Alonso’s home run power, Walker has averaged 32 homers annually over the past three years. Where Walker stands out is his defense.
A three-time reigning Gold Glove winner, he has long been regarded as one of the best defensive first basemen in the league. He led National League first basemen with 13 outs above average last season, earning his third consecutive Gold Glove and tying Paul Goldschmidt for the most by a Diamondbacks first baseman. Since the start of 2022, Walker has topped all first basemen with 38 outs above average and ranks fifth in wins above replacement over that period. With 57 outs above average since 2016, Walker is the best defensive first baseman of the Statcast era.
While power-hitting first basemen often see a rapid decline as they age, Walker has shown no signs of slowing down. His hard-hit and barrel rates remain excellent, and his bat speed is well above league average. The 2025 Steamer projections have both Walker and the younger Alonso as nearly identical hitters, though Walker holds the edge defensively.
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