Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Yankees sign Walker to handle 2B
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 RBI 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.”
Pitcher Lance Lynn got right to work with Minnesota after finalizing his $12 million, one-year deal. He turned down a $17.4 million offer to stay with St. Louis, and looked for a richer contract in free agency.
Lynn limbered up with the Twins on a practice field, and is set to start today against Baltimore.
Starter Alex Cobb and reliever Greg Holland are among the free agents still available. All 30 teams open on March 29.