Walker takes Yankees deal and pay cut

Neil Walker became the latest free agent to take a big pay cut as opening day approaches, joining the New York Yankees on Monday with a one-year deal for $4 million.

The veteran infielder made $17.2 million last season while playing for the New York Mets and Milwaukee. He can make $1 million in performance bonuses this year.

The 32-year-old Walker hit .265 with 14 home runs and 49 RBIs last season, then became a free agent. He will likely start at second base, giving prospects Gleyber Torres and Miguel Andujar more time to mature in the minor leagues.

“It’s certainly a crazy offseason, but more than anything my hope was that I’d land somewhere that’s going to be competitive and have a chance to win,” Walker said. “I’m happy to be here, happy to be on a contending team.”