Kyle Tucker enjoyed a strong 2025 season. Batting .266 with 22 home runs and 73 RBIs, the outfielder played a key role in helping the Chicago Cubs qualify for the postseason, earning himself an All-Star selection and Silver Slugger award in the process.
Entering free agency once the campaign ended, he was predicted to be one of the most sought-after players on the market. Fast forward to January, however, and Tucker’s future remains undecided, with spring training less than two months away.
The slugger has reportedly attracted interest from several teams, including the New York Yankees. On Tuesday’s episode of “The Show,” New York Post insider Jon Heyman asked YES Network’s Michael Kay if Tucker’s potential move to the Bronx was still in play.
“I think the only way you (Yankees) are going to get Tucker, and when we hear about the Dodgers possibly getting Tucker, is a high average annual value, a shorter-term deal with opt-outs,” Kay said (Timestamp: 41:32). “So, let’s say you give him $135 million for three years with opt-outs. Do the Yankees want to add $45 million a year, average annual value, to their payroll? I think that’s the big question.”
Kay also spoke about why Kyle Tucker’s situation has perplexed him.
“It is amazing to me, though,” Kay added (Timestamp: 41:55). “This guy was so highly thought of when he was with the Astros, then he goes to the Cubs. In an injury-plagued year, he still was a plus WAR player. He doesn’t have the same love on the market.
“You know, I wonder what his market is. I don’t think Kyle Tucker’s close to signing I might be wrong. If I’m the Yankees, I’d be interested in him. But I know the Yankees are concerned, they don’t want to be too left-handed. We’ll see,” he concluded.
Kyle Tucker Remains Linked To Other Top Clubs
As Kyle Tucker’s search for a new home continues into the new year, the New York Yankees are not the only team keeping tabs on the four-time All-Star.
The Toronto Blue Jays, who were considered favorites to sign Tucker earlier in the winter, still maintain an interest in him. However, having recently signed highly regarded Japanese free agent Kazuma Okamoto to a four-year, $60 million contract, they might not feel the need to reinforce their offense as urgently as before.
The New York Mets are another team in the race for Kyle Tucker’s signature. Having already let big names such as Pete Alonso, Edwin Diaz, and Brandon Nimmo walk, the Mets have yet to make a big splash this offseason, and they may finally decide to bring their chequebook out to secure Tucker’s services.
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