Christian Walker, previously with the Arizona Diamondbacks, has signed a three-year, $60 million contract with the Houston Astros, marking a significant move as he was a top target for the New York Yankees. The Yankees opted out of pursuing Walker due to a qualifying offer from the Diamondbacks, which would have required them to forfeit a draft pick.

Now, the Yankees are exploring other first base options, including Paul Goldschmidt and Carlos Santana, while also considering trade possibilities and in-house candidates like Ben Rice and Oswaldo Cabrera. The situation is further complicated by the Yankees' disinterest in New York Mets' Pete Alonso, who also received a qualifying offer.