Yankees Could Target Kyle Tucker If Cubs Extension Talks Stall

The Kyle Tucker sweepstakes may be heating up, and the New York Yankees are lurking. According to MLB insider Mike Rodriguez, the two sides are already discussing an extension. However, a recent mailbag from Chris Kirschner of The Athletic suggests the Yankees could still be in the mix if negotiations stall.

“The Yankees should certainly be in the Tucker sweepstakes this offseason,” Kirschner wrote. “They expressed interest in the outfielder last offseason before the Houston Astros traded him to the Chicago Cubs. The clubs had discussions about a potential trade, but the Yankees were hesitant to part with Luis Gil.

Kirschner added that Tucker’s camp likely “popped numerous bottles of champagne” after Vladimir Guerrero Jr. signed a 14-year, $500 million extension with the Toronto Blue Jays. Not only is Tucker arguably the better player, but Guerrero’s deal may shift other teams’ focus toward a similarly priced (or more affordable) star in Tucker.

Kyle Tucker’s Market May Be About to Explode

If the Cubs fail to lock Tucker up, the Yankees make sense as a potential suitor both financially and roster-wise. When healthy, Tucker is arguably a top-10 player in baseball. Since his debut in 2018, he holds a career 141 wRC+, ranking outside the tip tier of elite hitters. Only eight players have been more productive in that span. He’s also swiped 97 bases since then, good for a spot in inside the top 30 and remains a solid defender in right field.

One drawback is that Tucker will be 29 next season. He’s a few years older than Juan Soto (who got 15 years) and Guerrero. Still, Tucker is expected to land a deal in the 10-11 year ranger and could command at least $40 million annually.

That might sound steep, but the Yankees have already shown a willingness to go big. They Yankees offered Soto $47.5 million AAV before he hit free agency and signed with the New York Mets. While their connection to Soto runs deeper, Tucker could be an equally valubale fallback if Cody Bellinger opts out. New York would have an outfield of Aaron Judge, Jasson Domínguez and Tucker could be one of the most dynamic in the league.

What Comes Next

For now, all eyes are on the Cubs and whether they can finalize a long-term deal with Tucker. If talks stall or break down entirely, expect rumors to ramp up quickly. Tucker’s talent, age and market value make him one of the most compelling potential free agents next offseason. While Chicago will do what it can to keep him, the possibility of New York stepping in can’t be ignored. If the Cubs don’t lock him up, the Tucker sweepstakes could become of the biggest storylines of the offseason, and the Yankees may be right in the thick of it.