MLB Rumors: Yankees Cautioned About Kyle Tucker Despite Him Being a “Perfect Replacement” for Juan Soto

The New York Yankees, especially Hal Steinbrenner, got a huge blow to their status—the reason? Juan Soto! Steinbrenner, heading the most storied franchise, couldn’t lock on this offseason’s gem, losing to their neighborhood rival, the New York Mets, which makes this deal even more brutal. But the Yankees cannot sit and brood over this goodbye; they need someone else to come in. The name making the rounds is Kyle Tucker.

Rumors suggest Kyle Tucker will be traded by the Houston Astros. Tucker has one year left before he gets to free agency, which might be the prime reason he will likely be traded. However, the Yankees have tough competition in this pursuit too; the Cubs are currently the frontrunners for acquiring Kyle. Plus, if sources are to be believed, even the Giants are in for the run and have spoken with the Astros for a possible trade. MLB insider Ken Rosenthal feels the Yankees should target Kyle, but it should be done with caution.

Kyle Tucker comes with risks; tread with caution!

During his exchange on Tuesday’s Foul Territory episode, Rosenthal was asked about a potential target for the New York Yankees for the replacement of Soto. He promptly noted the possibilities around Kyle Tucker, claiming, “He is a perfect replacement for Soto. He might not be the offensive powerhouse Soto is, but he’s a better baserunner, capable of stealing 30 bases, and a much better defender—a Gold Glove winner.” However, Ken Rosenthal was quick to put in a caution for the Yankees.

Rosenthal reminded how getting Kyle Tucker would come with its own risks, much like the situation the team had with Soto. So, the Yankees might have to part ways with Tucker, as just one year is left before he moves in free agency. However, the team is possibly desperate to fill in the void, and even though Kyle Tucker is no Juan Soto, he hit .289 with 23 homers and 49 RBIs in 78 games with 11 steals.

Juan Soto, meanwhile, hit. 41 home runs and 109 RBIs in 157 games played. So, while Kyle Tucker might not be as explosive offensively, he still is a balanced player—his prowess can indeed make him a worthy addition to the Yankees’ lineup! But here’s another hurdle to this deal: the competing teams in pursuit of Tucker.

Chicago Cubs might steal Tucker from Yankees

The New York Yankees are not going to have anything easy; the Chicago Cubs fans, however, might want to brace themselves for this! Their team is reportedly making moves to get Houston Astros star Kyle Tucker. After the news that the Astros are open to listening to trade offers for anyone on their roster, the Cubs have jumped at a possible supersonic deal.

Ken Rosenthal and Chandler Rome of The Athletic have mentioned that the two teams have been actively talking about a trade framework, noting, “Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki and corner infielder Isaac Paredes are two players the Houston Astros are targeting in a possible trade for right fielder Kyle Tucker, sources briefed on the discussions told The Athletic on Wednesday.” 

However, there are certain complications. Seiya Suzuki holds a full no-trade clause, and he must agree to the move. The Chicago Cubs might hesitate to include him, therefore, in the deal, but the fact that these discussions are even taking place is also a great sign for Cubs fans. As far as Tucker goes, getting him will be perfect—he can elevate the Chicago Cubs lineup to the very next level.

Do you think the Cubs can get the coveted star from the Astros? Let us know in the comments below if you think the Yankees will lose this one too.