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The New York Yankees have never shied away from adding superstar players. They can no longer pursue Vladimir Guerrero Jr. this winter, but could make a run at Kyle Tucker, who is now the top player expected to be available.
Tucker was traded from the Houston Astros to the Chicago Cubs following three consecutive All-Star nods. He has hit 122 home runs since 2021 and is one of the best players in the league. The Athletic's Jim Bowden suggested the Yankees could be "in play" for him, among other teams.
"He is again on pace to hit close to 30 homers and steal close to 30 bases," wrote Bowden. "The three-time All-Star, one-time Gold Glove winner and one-time Silver Slugger looks like he'll have an opportunity to hit that trifecta in his free-agent walk year. Following Juan Soto's record-setting $765 million deal in free agency and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s $500 million extension, Tucker is expected to land a nine-figure contract that starts with a six. Several big-market teams, including the Cubs, (Philadelphia) Phillies, Yankees and (Los Angeles) Dodgers, should be in play for him."
Tucker is slashing .268/.381/.532 with 11 home runs and 34 RBIs in his first 49 games with the Cubs. He was on pace for career highs across the board last season, but an injury forced him to play in just 78 games.
Adding Tucker to a lineup with Aaron Judge would give the Yankees a second superstar at the plate on a nightly basis. Tucker's defense would also be a great asset for the Yankees.
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About the writer
Aaliyan Mohammed is a Newsweek contributor based in Atlanta, GA. His focus is MLB content. Aaliyan has been with Newsweek ... Read more