Don’t let the Yankees’ current roster fool you — their eyes are on 2026. While the regular season plays out, there’s a long game being quietly strategized in the front office. And at the center of it?
The 27-year-old Chicago Cubs star is lighting it up to start the 2025 season, slashing .322/.452/.678 with five homers and 16 RBIs across just 15 games. He’s walking at an absurd 19.2% clip and only striking out 9.6% of the time, with a 208 wRC+ to match.
If you’re looking for a Juan Soto replacement, Tucker is about as close as you’ll get — but with better defense.
Why Tucker Makes So Much Sense
The Yankees won’t say it out loud, but they’re clearly waiting for the opportunity to pounce. There have been quiet whispers about the Cubs trying to extend Tucker early, but if he keeps this up, his best bet is to test the open market — and he knows it.
“It would be surprising if the Yankees did not pursue Tucker in free agency. He’s one of the best players in the sport, and the Yankees will have money to spend,” Chris Kirschner of The Athletic reported.
By the time 2026 rolls around, New York will have the financial runway cleared. Cody Bellinger could be gone — either opting out after a rebound season or sticking around if he underwhelms. If it’s the latter, the Yankees might look to trade him and pay down a portion of his $26 million salary, just like the Cubs did to move him last winter.
Either way, they’ll be ready to reshape the outfield.
The Numbers Add Up — Literally
Paul Goldschmidt’s $12.5 million deal is coming off the books. Aaron Hicks and Anthony Rizzo, both ghosting the roster but still haunting the luxury tax, will free up another $15 million. If Bellinger walks, that’s another huge chunk cleared.
Ben Rice can slot into first base without costing a penny more, giving the Yankees flexibility without losing production.
That opens the door wide for a Tucker signing.
The Perfect Fit in the Bronx
Imagine this outfield: Kyle Tucker in left, Aaron Judge in right, Jasson Dominguez patrolling center. Power, athleticism, plate discipline — and perhaps most importantly, stability. That trio would immediately become one of the most well-rounded outfields in the sport.
Tucker also brings something the Yankees always need: defense. He recorded seven defensive runs saved last season, a stark contrast to the corner outfield defense Juan Soto provided in right field.
He’s the type of two-way player who ages well and elevates a team’s floor and ceiling. And at 27, he’ll be hitting free agency in his prime — not on the decline.
This isn’t just a pipe dream. The Yankees are setting the table now, and if Tucker keeps raking, it’s only a matter of time before they make their move.