Grading MLB’s Flurry of First-Base B1 Moves as Offseason Action Heats Up

The MLB offseason is in full swing, and the first-base market has seen significant action with several notable trades and signings. Teams are reshaping their lineups and preparing for the 2025 season, each move carrying implications for future success. Let’s break down these key moves, grade their impact, and analyze what they mean for the league.

Christian Walker Joins the Astros: A Game-Changer?

Grade: A

Christian Walker’s move to the Houston Astros is a calculated win for both sides. The 34-year-old first baseman, known for his power and defensive excellence, signed a three-year, $60 million deal. Over the last three seasons, Walker has crushed 95 home runs and earned three consecutive Gold Gloves, showcasing his value as both a hitter and a fielder.

Walker’s hitting profile fits perfectly with Houston’s Daikin Park, particularly its short left field. His pull-hitting tendencies should capitalize on the stadium’s dimensions, making him a potent force in the Astros’ lineup. While some fans may worry about signing another aging first baseman after the José Abreu debacle, Walker’s lack of red flags in his performance suggests a very different trajectory.

This move solidifies Houston’s infield and adds another weapon to their already dangerous lineup, keeping the team in contention for another deep postseason run.

Paul Goldschmidt to the Yankees: A Risky Bet

Grade: C+

Paul Goldschmidt’s transition to the New York Yankees raised eyebrows. At 37 years old, his productivity has noticeably declined since his 2022 MVP campaign. His OPS has dipped significantly, and last season he finished with a below-average 98 OPS+, the lowest mark of his career.

The Yankees opted for Goldschmidt over other available options, including Christian Walker, reportedly to avoid giving up draft-pick compensation. This decision is puzzling given Goldschmidt’s clear regression and the team’s need for reliable offense.

On the bright side, Goldschmidt showed improvement in the second half of 2024, posting a .799 OPS with nine home runs. If he maintains this trajectory, his $12.5 million salary could provide decent value. Still, this feels more like a stopgap measure than a transformative move for a team with World Series ambitions.

Josh Naylor Lands with the Diamondbacks: A Solid Addition

Grade: B+

Josh Naylor’s trade to the Arizona Diamondbacks offers promise for both sides. Coming off a career-best season with 100 RBIs and a 9.2% walk rate, Naylor brings a blend of power and contact hitting to the D-backs’ lineup. His ability to avoid strikeouts adds consistency, making him an excellent fit in the middle of the batting order behind stars like Corbin Carroll and Ketel Marte.

Though Naylor is only under contract for one season at a projected $12 million, the price paid to acquire him was reasonable. If he replicates his 2024 form, Naylor could be a key piece in Arizona’s postseason push, filling the void left by Christian Walker’s departure.

Nathaniel Lowe to the Nationals: A Smart Investment

Grade: B+

Nathaniel Lowe’s trade to the Washington Nationals is a strategic move for a team looking to build around its young core. Lowe, a consistent offensive performer, brings an OBP around .360 and better-than-average power to the Nationals’ lineup. His presence will complement rising stars like CJ Abrams and James Wood, providing veteran leadership and run-producing potential.

While Lowe’s power numbers have declined since his 27-homer season in 2022, his overall value remains high. Acquiring him for reliever Robert Garcia was a low-risk move that bolsters Washington’s offense without compromising its long-term flexibility.

What About Pete Alonso?

The flurry of first-base moves leaves Pete Alonso as the last marquee name on the market. Known for his prodigious power—second only to Aaron Judge in home runs since 2019—Alonso remains a highly sought-after bat.

The New York Mets appear eager to retain Alonso, but the Seattle Mariners could emerge as a dark horse contender. With their power-starved offense and Alonso’s ability to hit for consistent power, he’d be a perfect fit. However, Seattle’s reluctance to commit to long-term, big-money deals may hinder a potential signing.

Wherever Alonso lands, his decision will shape the first-base landscape for years to come.

This offseason’s first-base activity highlights teams’ differing strategies, from short-term fixes to long-term investments. While Christian Walker’s move to the Astros stands out as a win, other deals, like Paul Goldschmidt to the Yankees, carry more uncertainty. As the dust settles, the spotlight now turns to Pete Alonso, whose next move could be the most impactful of all.

The first-base shuffle isn’t just about filling positions—it’s about setting the stage for MLB’s next chapter.