MLB free agency rumors: Neil Walker heading to the Big Apple?
MLB free agency rumors are buzzing of a New York destination for Neil Walker. But, which New York team is the front-runner?
It’s a rarity in MLB free agency that the New York Yankees and New York Mets are vying for the same player, but here we are with the pursuit of Neil Walker. Recent MLB free agency rumors surfaced that both New York teams are in the hunt for the infielder — according to reports from New Jersey Real-Time Sports.
An under the radar veteran player in Walker would be a nice addition to the Yankees, who are looking for some infield depth heading into 2018. This particular fan recognizes the promise of Walker, shooting for the moon in her 2018 predictions for the overlooked MLB veteran.
2018 was a subpar season for Walker — .267/ .409/.433 — who split time with both the Mets and Brewers. A lifetime .272 hitter, he’s never been a flashy player, but one who’s created stability. During his tenure with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Walker lived in the shadows of superstars such as Andrew McCutchen, but, was a crucial part of their three-year playoff run from 2013-2015.
As @Ken_Rosenthal reported, the Mets are down to four "finalists" for their infield vacancy: Neil Walker, Todd Frazier, Eduardo Nunez and Josh Harrison. And they would really prefer a free agent (i.e. not Harrison).
— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) January 29, 2018
More from Call to the Pen
- Philadelphia Phillies, ready for a stretch run, bomb St. Louis Cardinals
- Philadelphia Phillies: The 4 players on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore
- Boston Red Sox fans should be upset over Mookie Betts’ comment
- Analyzing the Boston Red Sox trade for Dave Henderson and Spike Owen
- 2023 MLB postseason likely to have a strange look without Yankees, Red Sox, Cardinals
If the Mets are wise, they would strongly consider bringing Walker back, who is on the short list of contenders to fill that vacant third baseman role.
The base salary for Walker for 2017 was $14.2 million, with his asking price likely right around the same amount. It’s unknown if he’s looking for a long-term deal or a shorter one, but both the Yankees or the Mets need to snag him quickly.
If the Yankees ink-up Walker, the pressure will be off him, with a loaded Yankees lineup. However, there will be a little more expected to be one of “the guys” with the Mets, with their lineup not as robust as their rivals down the block.
Next: David Wright opens up about his MLB future
Expect Neil Walker to bounce back in 2018, with a New York destination likely. Now, he’s not projected to turn into the next Daniel Murphy, but he’s sure to provide stability for a team looking for more depth on an already established roster — which screams that of the New York Yankees.