Kyle Tucker is arguably the best free agent available on the market this offseason. As such, the New York Yankees are expected to be in the mix for his services, but just how far will they go to land him?
Tucker was traded from the Houston Astros to the Chicago Cubs prior to last season, and hit.266 with 22 home runs, and a.841 OPS in 136 games. Tucker was also named an All-Star for the fourth consecutive season for his efforts.
Now a free agent, Tucker should command serious money in the open market. The Yankees lost out on Juan Soto to the New York Mets last season, and will have another opportunity to make up for the loss by landing Tucker.
The Yankees did get superb production out of Cody Bellinger — who is also a free agent — last season, which could affect how hard they push for Tucker, nonetheless, MLB.com’s Thomas Harrigan sees a scenario where the Yankees push for the All-Star outfielder.
“There are also reasons to believe that the Yankees won't be at the forefront of the Tucker sweepstakes, especially when Bellinger is out there as a lower-cost alternative who offers more flexibility on defense,” Harrigan said. “While Tucker is certainly an excellent hitter, it's fair to wonder whether the Yankees would want to invest that heavily at a non-premium position for a player who isn't quite a superstar.”
The Yankees will now take the time to survey all their options for upgrades ahead of a pivotal 2026 season, with Tucker expected to be heavily in that mix.
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