The New York Yankees upgraded their infield when they signed Neil Walker on a one year deal.
Less than a year ago, the New York Yankees were a game away from the World Series last year. Now, the club is truly ensuring that a World Series can be won this year, by added veteran infielder Neil Walker on a 1-year deal worth $4 million.
New York traded for infielder Brandon Drury earlier in the offseason to give top prospects Miguel Andujar and Gleyber Torres more time. Acquiring Walker will provide more pop and depth in the infield. The starting infield will now include the switch-hitting second baseman. The Yankees are right-handed heavy at the dish, so Walker provides flexibility from both sides.
Everyone knows that this team is in on Manny Machado next winter, so they have been cautious about going over the luxury tax threshold. With that said, New York didn’t back up the truck to sign Walker. The infielder made over $13.5 million in 2017, so the Yankees got him for dirt cheap. Just another shrewd move by GM Brian Cashman. If the club adds a dominant starting pitcher in the summer, look out American League. At the moment, the Yankees have filled their holes heading into Opening Day.
In 2017, Walker batted .265 with 14 home runs and 49 RBI 448 games. You have to think he’ll hit some more homers at Yankee Stadium. With this signing, they are letting their top prospects simmer a little longer. Torres had Tommy John surgery, and that isn’t easy to come back from no matter what position. So, New York won’t rush either to the big leagues just because. They will take their time with both young players.
Andujar has done well in spring training, hitting .281 with 4 home runs 32 at bats. Although, the club can gain an extra year of control in holding him in the minors. Also, it wouldn’t hurt to get some more ABs at Triple-A. He is a player that has a big bat that could debut for the team later this season. Same goes for Torres because of his injury, in which he doesn’t need to worry about rushing back. Walker is a security blanket because the team has more options in the infield.
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Overall, this was a shrewd signing for a club that one of the best teams in the AL. With that said, the club has shored up second base with the acquisition of Walker. They already have one of the most powerful lineups in the AL, and Walker complements them.