The New York Yankees, perennial heavyweights in the free-agent market, are no strangers to blockbuster deals. Last offseason, they made waves by acquiring outfielder Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs, a move that signaled their intent to bolster an already potent lineup. This offseason, another Cubs outfielder, Kyle Tucker, was expected to be the crown jewel of free agency. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over Tucker’s once-shining star, leading experts to warn the Yankees to steer clear of the former MVP candidate.
Kyle Tucker started the 2025 season on fire, thrusting himself into the heart of MVP conversations with his stellar play. The four-time All-Star, traded to the Cubs in the offseason, seemed poised for a massive payday as he approached free agency. But since June, Tucker’s performance has taken a nosedive, raising red flags for potential suitors. This week, Cubs manager Craig Counsell dropped a bombshell: Tucker had been playing through a hand fracture, a revelation that explains his struggles but complicates his future.
Despite the injury, Tucker has remained stoic, refusing to use it as an excuse for his dip in form. However, his prolonged slump led Counsell to bench him for several games, a decision that has sparked debate about his value heading into free agency. FanSided’s Curt Bishop didn’t mince words, urging the Yankees to avoid Tucker at all costs, labeling him a potential “nightmare” signing for the Bronx Bombers.
“The Yankees are typically big spenders in free agency, but if Tucker’s value continues to fall, they should run the other way, much like they’ve avoided Nolan Arenado in trade talks,” Bishop wrote. “With Aaron Judge already commanding a massive contract and Giancarlo Stanton’s deal weighing down the payroll for years to come, adding another high-priced star—especially one whose recent numbers signal a troubling decline—is a risky move the Yankees can’t afford.”
Even with his struggles, Tucker’s talent and track record have kept him in the conversation for a jaw-dropping $500 million contract, as projected by ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The injury revelation might temper expectations slightly, but teams may still be willing to roll the dice on the 28-year-old outfielder, hoping a healthy Tucker can return to his All-Star form. For the Yankees, however, the risks may outweigh the rewards.
Instead of chasing Tucker, the Yankees could turn their attention to a familiar face: Cody Bellinger. The former NL MVP, acquired from the Cubs last offseason, is expected to opt out of his contract and test free agency. Bellinger, who has shown flashes of brilliance in pinstripes, could be a more cost-effective and reliable option. Additionally, the Yankees have a rising star in prospect Spencer Jones, who is nearing his MLB debut and could fill an outfield role without the hefty price tag.
With their financial commitments already stretched and a deep roster in place, the Yankees have little need for Tucker’s services. Bishop’s warning underscores a broader truth: in a market flush with talent, New York’s spending power would be better directed elsewhere—whether toward bolstering their pitching staff or locking in Bellinger for the long haul. As Tucker’s free agency looms, the Yankees would be wise to heed the cautionary tale of a $500 million superstar whose recent struggles could spell disaster in the Bronx.