Houston Astros could pursue Christian Walker if the team loses Alex Bregman

The Houston Astros are facing the ongoing free agency of one of the faces of their franchise, third baseman Alex Bregman.

While nothing is set in stone and the team has maintained its desire to retain the two-time All-Star to this point, backup plans need to be put in place. Of course, if Bregman does indeed leave, the most ideal scenario for Astros fans would be to sign Milwaukee Brewers star shortstop Willy Adames and move him to third. But another option that hasn’t shaken the enthusiasm of the fan base is veteran Jorge Polanco. Recent reports suggest the team is in contact with both as Bregman’s situation continues to evolve.

If Houston takes a cheaper route to third base in Bregman’s role, perhaps they could look across the diamond to first base and spend some money there on a premium free agent option. In an article Thursday, MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart wrote that the Astros have an offer to Bregman, but if he chooses a bigger offer elsewhere, Arizona Diamondbacks free agent first baseman Christian Walker could be in play.

“The team has discussed free agent first baseman Christian Walker, a three-time Gold Glove winner,” McTaggart wrote. “He missed 32 games in 2024 due to an oblique injury, but hit 26 home runs in 130 games, recording his third straight season with an OPS over .800. The Astros would prefer Bregman make a decision before making their next move, but they also can’t afford to wait too long.”

Walker checks a few boxes. For one thing, it would at least ease the pain of losing Bregman a little and replace a good portion of his production in the lineup. Walker has hit more home runs and a better OPS than Bregman over the past three seasons. He also ends the platoon the team recently deployed at first base.

While third base is obviously more important than first base in terms of defense, Walker offers an elite glove in the infield. Not to mention, we can help offset the loss of experienced leadership that Bregman also takes over.

However, the most important advantage might be the cost. Walker is three years older than Bregman and doesn’t have the same star status across the league. Walker isn’t expected to get a contract worth even nine figures, let alone the $200 million that Bregman’s deal could reach.

It’s not exactly a perfect replacement, but if the team has money to spend after Bregman goes elsewhere, Walker could be a great option.