D-Backs could reunite with former star this winter to fill first base void

The Arizona Diamondbacks are right in the thick of the postseason chase with just over a month to go in the 2024 regular season.

The defending National League champions appear to be pointed towards the postseason for a second straight year, but they may have a hole to fill in the offseason.

First baseman Christian Walker is set to enter free agency, which leaves the Diamondbacks with a void at that position, but they could target an old friend to replace him.

"Age and decline have caught up with Paul Goldschmidt, who over the last three years has seen his slugging percentage go from a league leading .578 in 2022 to .447 in 2023, to .393 this year," Jim Bowden of The Athletic wrote. "It will be interesting to see if he decides to retire or keep playing.

In all likelihood, the St. Louis Cardinals are not going to keep Goldschmidt around for 2025. He turns 37 in September. But Arizona could still bring him back at a good price.

He made his Major League debut with the D-Backs in 2011 and was with the team until 2018 when he was traded to St. Louis. He won the National League MVP Award with the Cardinals in 2022.

Despite his decline, he remains a serviceable player and could be a cheaper option for Arizona if they do indeed lose Walker. Goldschmidt would have the chance to play with a legitimate contender if signed by Arizona.

More MLB: Cardinals slugger nearing end of career: Will former MVP retire?