HERE WE GO: Pirates Set to Land $63 Million Slugger in Potential Offseason Blockbuster Deal

HERE WE GO: Pirates Set to Land $63 Million Slugger in Potential Offseason Blockbuster Deal

The Pittsburgh Pirates are looking to make a major splash this offseason in their bid to break a nine-year playoff drought, with a significant move on the horizon. According to baseball expert Kerry Miller, the Pirates are expected to target free agent Christian Walker, a three-time Gold Glove winner, in a potential three-year, $63 million deal.

The Pirates have made progress in recent years, but their 2024 campaign ended with another last-place finish in the NL Central, despite a solid young core. At 76-86, Pittsburgh struggled to gain ground, and one of the most glaring issues was at first base. For much of the season, the Pirates relied on Rowdy Tellez (105 games) and Connor Joe (49 games) to fill the position, but both underperformed offensively and defensively. With subpar production from this key spot in the lineup, it was clear that the Pirates needed to add a bat that could provide both power and consistency.

Enter Christian Walker. The 33-year-old slugger, who is originally from Pennsylvania, could be the perfect solution for Pittsburgh’s offensive woes. Walker had a solid 2024 season with the Arizona Diamondbacks, posting a .251 batting average, .335 on-base percentage, and .468 slugging percentage. He also hit 26 home runs, drove in 84 RBIs, and finished with an .803 OPS, earning a 121 OPS+ and 2.6 Wins Above Replacement (WAR). His combination of offensive firepower and elite defense at first base could be exactly what the Pirates need to turn their fortunes around.

In addition to his impressive offensive production, Walker’s defensive prowess is another key selling point. As a three-time Gold Glove winner, he would immediately shore up a position that has been a weak link for the Pirates. His veteran presence and ability to anchor the middle of the lineup would provide a much-needed boost for a team still in the process of developing its younger stars like Oneil Cruz, Ke’Bryan Hayes, and Bryan Reynolds.

For the Pirates, landing Walker would be a game-changer. The team has not made the playoffs since 2015 and has not won a postseason series since 2013. With their current roster and some key offseason additions, they have a real shot at returning to contention. Walker’s arrival would solidify Pittsburgh’s lineup, offering protection to their emerging stars while also providing leadership and stability at first base.

The Pirates have plenty of needs this offseason, but securing a player like Christian Walker could be the cornerstone of their efforts to contend in 2025. As the offseason unfolds, Pittsburgh will be hoping to land the slugger and take a significant step toward returning to the postseason for the first time in nearly a decade.