Kyle Tucker headlines this year’s free‑agent class, and his name naturally enters the Yankees’ conversation. The club reportedly offered Juan Soto a massive 16‑year, $760 million deal last offseason before he chose the Mets, so it’s clear New York is not afraid of bold financial commitments. Still, there are reasons to question whether Tucker is the right fit.
Aaron Judge is locked into right field for six more years at $40 million annually, and Tucker does not play center. That would likely leave him in left field, a less premium spot. While Tucker is an excellent hitter, the Yankees may hesitate to invest heavily in a corner outfielder when Bellinger offers more defensive flexibility at a lower cost.