Houston Astros Target Projected to Make $72 Million in Free Agency (Not Alonso!)

Houston Astros happened He was linked to Pete Alonso at times last year. On paper, this fit seems logical, as Alonso will solve all his problems in the first place.

However, considering the slugger is looking at a potential $200 million deal, it may not make much sense to sign him along with other flaws on the roster.

There will be other first basemen on the market. While none of them are better than Alonso, we can strongly argue that: Christian Walker It will be more affordable due to its price.

Walker, who finished with 26 home runs, was a late-developing player. He would be in a much different position if he played this way early in his career, but he still has the chance to earn a generous salary this winter.

Jim Bowden Athletic He called the Astros a suitor for the slugger and predicted he would get a three-year, $72 million deal. That would differ greatly from Alonso, who Bowden projects will sign a seven-year, $204 million contract.

“Christian Walker is one of the best first basemen in the sport. Despite his years of production, he never made the All-Star team; I thought he was this summer’s biggest All-Star snub. Two-time Gold Glove Award winner despite playing an above-average month with injury , finished the season with 26 home runs and 84 RBIs in 130 games. He hit at least 25 bombs in the order and posted an OPS+ over 120. Many teams are interested in Walker early, with the Astros and Mariners being the best early fit.”

As players, the numbers may be in Alonso’s favor, but that doesn’t take away from Walker’s performance over the last three seasons.

When it comes to under-the-radar free agents, there may be no player who fits that description better than Walker.

He could also benefit greatly from playing at Minute Maid Park and on the short porch in left field, perhaps giving Houston a chance to sign a hitter who can hit 40-plus home runs.

It would be hard to justify the Astros’ offseason if they don’t acquire Walker or Alonso. There are other options and it’s possible they could trade to improve the position, but two power hitters are excellent targets.

Time will tell, but Houston needs to get a big win this offseason.