With Juan Soto off their board, the Yankees on Sunday night renewed contract discussions with free agent first baseman Christian Walker, The Post has learned.
Walker is far from the only player the Yankees are pursuing in free agency and trade.
And the Yankees are multi-tasking on pitchers and hitters as they try to reallocate some of the money they offered Soto after the slugging outfielder opted to leave pinstripes for the Mets’ 15-year, $765 million package.
Nevertheless, Walker is a player the Yankees have more than glancing interest in. And there might be a fringe benefit to adding Walker.
If the season began today, Ben Rice would be the first baseman. If the Yankees were able to land Walker, it could allow them to more comfortably include Rice in trade discussions for someone such as Garrett Crochet.
Walker is not a perfect fit for the Yankees. It would be better if he were a lefty swinger. He turns 34 in March and is likely to receive no less than a three-year deal.
But Walker also has won the last three NL Gold Gloves at first, reflecting his defensive excellence.
Over the last three seasons, Walker has 95 homers and a 123 OPS-plus compared to Pete Alonso, who has 120 homers and 131 OPS-plus but less WAR (10.2) compared to Walker (11.4), who is the superior defender and baserunner.
Walker also has a reputation as an excellent clubhouse presence.