New York, December 22, 2025 – The New York Yankees are at a crossroads this offseason, and a recent development suggests they might pivot from Cody Bellinger to pursue Kyle Tucker, a move that could dramatically reshape their outfield and potentially break the bank.
Yankees Weigh Risk of Waiting on Bellinger, Could Turn to Tucker
A shifting free-agent landscape is forcing the Yankees to consider all options as they build for 2026.
- The Yankees have been heavily linked to Cody Bellinger throughout the offseason.
- Bellinger’s agent, Scott Boras, may be waiting for Kyle Tucker to sign before finalizing a deal with Bellinger.
- Kyle Tucker is projected to command a massive contract, potentially exceeding $360 million.
The Yankees’ pursuit of Cody Bellinger has been a central storyline of the offseason, but a new wrinkle has emerged. With Bellinger’s agent, Scott Boras, potentially holding firm until Kyle Tucker’s situation is resolved, the Yankees risk losing both prized outfielders, according to recent reports. This strategic pause by Boras could compel the Yankees to aggressively pursue Tucker now, rather than gamble on Bellinger’s availability later.
While Bellinger remains a top target, Tucker is projected to be the more expensive acquisition. The Athletic estimates Tucker’s potential contract at 12 years, $460 million. However, a recent proposal from Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report suggests the Yankees could land Tucker with a 10-year, $360 million deal.
Why They Should Keep Chasing Bellinger Anyway
This aggressive pursuit of Tucker wouldn’t just strain the budget for other needs, like a starting pitcher; it could mean missing out on a superior contact hitter and defender. Bellinger, though slightly older than Tucker, is widely considered a better fit for the 2026 Yankees.
The Yankees face a precarious situation. If Bellinger waits for Tucker’s decision, they risk losing both players, leaving them with limited options in the outfield. As Joel Reuter wrote, “A reunion with Cody Bellinger still remains a real possibility, but he’s probably not going to sign until Kyle Tucker makes his decision, and the Yankees are still very much in the running for the top overall player in the 2025-26 free-agent class.”
With the specter of another situation like the one with Juan Soto looming, and only Spencer Jones and Jasson Dominguez currently available as left field options, the Yankees might be wise to secure Tucker if possible. The free-agent market is tightening, and the team can’t afford to be left without star power.
