Jack MurrayDecember 20, 2024

Trinity Machan/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The New York Yankees are reportedly staying aggressive in the free-agent market as they continue to search for solutions at first base.

In the aftermath of Christian Walker’s reported deal with the Houston Astros, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that the team is focused on free agents Paul Goldschmidt and Carlos Santana moving forward:

Bob Nightengale @BNightengale

The Yankees were interested in Walker too but didn’t want to lose a draft pick in compensation. They still are focused on Paul Goldschmidt and Carlos Santana.

Nightengale reported that the qualifying offer the Arizona Diamondbacks gave Walker deterred the Yankees’ pursuit before the Astros swooped in. Walker reportedly agreed to a three-year, $60 million deal with Houston.

The Yankees went 94-68 in 2024 and reached the World Series. While it was a pretty successful season, first base was a weakness as Anthony Rizzo dealt with injuries and also produced just eight home runs. The team enjoyed a brief hot stretch from rookie Ben Rice, but his bat ultimately went cold and he finished the season with a .171 batting average.

While Walker could have filled that hole, Goldschmidt and Santana are both viable options. Santana slashed .238/.328/.420 with 23 home runs and 71 RBIs for the Minnesota Twins in 2024. He is a switch hitter who could be a short-term fill while players like Rice develop.

Goldschmidt would be a flashier option considering that he is a former MVP winner. The 37-year-old slashed .245/.302/.414 with 22 home runs and 65 RBIs for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2024.

Regardless of who they sign, it looks like the Yankees still have every intention of adding a veteran first baseman during an offseason that has already seen them sign starting pitcher Max Fried and acquire former MVP Cody Bellinger.