The New York Yankees are making waves this week with their interest in star third baseman Alex Bregman and outfielder Kyle Tucker. The potential deals could also see AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil heading to another team.
According to MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch, the Yankees’ pursuit of Bregman is “real,” as they aim to bolster their infield with one of baseball’s elite defenders. Bregman, fresh off earning his first Gold Glove with the Houston Astros in 2024, led all American League third basemen with a .972 fielding percentage. The Astros have reportedly offered Bregman a six-year, $156 million deal to remain in Houston, per MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart. However, the Yankees appear poised to compete aggressively for his services, signaling their intent to make significant roster upgrades this offseason.
Kyle Tucker trade talks
Meanwhile, the Yankees are also in discussions with the Astros regarding Kyle Tucker, a two-time All-Star outfielder with one year remaining on his current contract. MLB insider Jon Heyman reports that the Yankees could offer AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil as the centerpiece of a potential deal. Tucker’s value is substantial despite missing three months last season due to a shin injury. He managed to hit 23 home runs and drive in 49 runs over just 78 games, showcasing his all-around ability.
Tucker is projected to earn $16.7 million in arbitration for 2025, according to Spotrac, and his next contract could soar to $300 million or more following Juan Soto’s record-setting deal with the Mets. While the Astros have explored trade possibilities with other teams, including the Chicago Cubs, the Yankees remain firmly in the mix.
The Cubs reportedly dangled a package involving Seiya Suzuki and All-Star Isaac Paredes, among other assets. Still, the Yankees may hold a competitive edge with their surplus of starting pitching, which includes Max Fried, Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Clarke Schmidt, Nestor Cortes, Marcus Stroman, and Luis Gil.
Luis Gil’s rising stock
Luis Gil emerged as a star in 2024, posting a 15-7 record with a 3.50 ERA across 29 starts. He struck out 171 batters in 151 2/3 innings, securing the Yankees’ first Rookie of the Year award since Aaron Judge. With an arbitration projection of just $800,000 for 2025, Gil represents an affordable, high-upside option for the Astros, whose rotation faces uncertainty following Justin Verlander’s free agency and ongoing injury concerns for Lance McCullers Jr. and Cristian Javier.
Astros general manager Dana Brown has hinted that any trade involving Bregman or Tucker would need to ensure the team remains competitive. Acquiring Gil could align with that vision, particularly as Houston’s rotation seeks stability.
Trading for Tucker would be a game-changer for the Yankees, providing them with a left-handed power bat to replace Soto, who departed in free agency. Tucker, the fifth overall pick in the 2015 draft, has been a consistent offensive force. He hit 29 home runs, drove in 112 RBIs, and stole 30 bases during his 2023 campaign, finishing fifth in AL MVP voting.
Even with limited playing time in 2024, Tucker accumulated a 4.2 WAR (per FanGraphs), ranking among the league’s best despite his injury-shortened season. His elite defense earned him a Gold Glove in 2022, and his career-best 181 OPS+ in 2023 underscores his value as a cornerstone player.
Yankees’ pitching surplus
The Yankees’ rotation depth positions them uniquely to pursue Tucker. With Fried and Cole anchoring the staff, they may explore trading Marcus Stroman or Nestor Cortes to free up payroll. A potential package headlined by Luis Gil and Ben Rice could be compelling enough to bring Tucker to the Bronx.
The Yankees are not the only team eyeing Tucker. The Cubs and San Francisco Giants are also in the mix, with the Cubs offering a combination of major-league-ready infielders and top prospects. The Phillies have reportedly made inquiries as well. However, the Yankees’ readiness to part with MLB talent like Gil may give them an edge.
The Yankees’ offseason strategy appears bold and calculated. Securing Bregman and Tucker would solidify their infield and outfield while addressing the loss of Juan Soto. With the Winter Meetings in full swing, all eyes are on the Yankees as they maneuver to assemble a championship-caliber roster for 2025.
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