Just looking through some predictions for contracts on these guys for fun:
Walker: some say 3 years for 50-75m, or a 1 year 20-27m deal. Seems like a lot, but I do like the short term option for flexibility.
Santander: 5 years 88-150m or something longer that spreads out the cost more. He's 30, so anything beyond 4-5 years is going to be during his decline. Still worth it if they can get him to replace Tucker.
I just don't think they have the available cash to sign 2 guys at that salary. Until they move other contracts, they are kinda stuck looking for bargains. That Abreu 3rd year still stings, as that money would likely get you Walker for a 1 year rental.
I can see the STL deal being appealing because you move the other money at the same time, and potentially get an OF with a couple years of control. That would plug 2 holes at once, shift cash around nicely, and provide some future flexibility. I'm not sure what prospect would need to go to STL in that deal, but it would be nice to get it all done at once. I hope one of those paths work out at least, and we don't end up with some shit like Grichuk and Gallo.