In a surprising turn, the New York Yankees’ potential trade for Kyle Tucker has gone from a far-fetched dream to a legitimate possibility.
After experimenting with a game-changing rental outfielder last year, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman recently appeared on MLB Network, stating his team’s intent to be aggressive, declaring, “From the Yankees’ standpoint, no retreat, no surrender.”
At the same time, reports emerged of the Yankees’ strong interest in Tucker. Joel Sherman noted that the addition of Max Fried has allowed the Yankees to fully focus on negotiating with Houston regarding Tucker, who is entering his walk year.
Along with the Yankees, the Cubs have reportedly been active in the race for Tucker, with the Giants and Phillies also expressing interest. Astros GM Dana Brown openly discussed Tucker’s availability at the Winter Meetings, and he has worked with Cashman on previous trades between the Braves and Yankees.
Sherman reported that the Yankees’ trade offer could begin with prospects Luis Gil and Ben Rice. While some fans may dismiss this package, Houston is reportedly “very interested” in Gil. The Yankees’ pitching depth, particularly after adding Fried, has made Gil more expendable, with the team now having seven major-league-ready starters. Though Gil’s second half of 2024 was less impressive, Houston seems to value his strong first half and four years of control.
Rice could fill the Astros’ need at first base. While his brief big-league stint didn’t fully reflect his minor-league power, he has the potential to develop into a classic left-handed slugger, similar to Tucker, and could thrive in Houston’s hitter-friendly park.
For those who think the package seems too light, it’s worth remembering that Juan Soto — one of the top players in the game — was traded for a package that included Michael King, Drew Thorpe, Jhony Brito, Randy Vasquez, Kyle Higashioka, and a salary dump of Trent Grisham. In comparison, Gil, Rice, and a lower-level prospect could be considered a strong offer.
While the Cubs have a strong farm system and the Yankees-Astros rivalry could play a role, the recent trade of Soto to the Mets has opened up new possibilities for Cashman, who is fully engaged in this high-stakes pursuit of Tucker.
