10 players who could replace Paul Goldschmidt at first for the Cardinals

Christian Walker

Let's start with the least likely option here. In fact, any one of the free agents on this list probably won't happen given the team's insistence that they'll be cutting payroll. Therefore, don't expect St. Louis to sign big-name free agents to supplant Paul Goldschmidt. If anything, back-end relievers and a bench piece or two may be available via free agency.

All that being said, Christian Walker would be a huge get for the St. Louis Cardinals. Despite debuting in 2014, Walker didn't get full control of first base for the Arizona Diamondbacks until Goldschmidt was traded to the Cardinals in 2019. After that, the reigns were his, and he didn't look back.

Since becoming a regular player, Walker, 33, has slashed .253/.333/.464 for an OPS+ of 115. He's hit 141 home runs in six seasons (COVID season included). The right-handed first baseman is a true middle-of-the-order bat, and he would be able to pick up right where Goldy left off.

Christian Walker also boasts one of the best gloves at first base in all of baseball. He's racked up 57 outs above average (OAA) since 2019, and he's in line to receive his second career Gold Glove here in 2024. If the Cardinals sign Christian Walker, the lineup and defense won't miss a beat following Goldschmidt's departure.

It won't be cheap to sign Walker; he received $10.9 million this past year via arbitration. Spotrac places his market value at a three-year deal worth around $66 million for an average annual value (AAV) of $22 million. That's the same price the Cardinals paid Goldschmidt this past year for double the bWAR -- Walker finished with 2.6 bWAR and Goldy had 1.3. That's more money than the DeWitts are likely willing to spend, but his right-handed swing would look awfully nice in Cardinal Red.

There's also something to be said of first baseman who once played for the Arizona Diamondbacks joining the Cardinals later in their career.