The New York Yankees are in serious contention for Houston Astros All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker, a move that could reshape their lineup and answer lingering questions about their offseason strategy. However, ongoing trade discussions highlight a significant divide between the two teams, as the Astros are reportedly dissatisfied with the Yankees’ initial offers.

Tucker, a three-time All-Star and 2022 Gold Glove winner, is entering the final year of team control. With free agency looming and Houston’s payroll constraints in mind, the Astros are exploring trade options. The Yankees are interested in acquiring him and even made offers. But, according to sources, they believe the Yankees are “low-balling” them in negotiations.

Adding Kyle Tucker to the Yankees’ lineup would fill a significant void left by Soto’s departure. A left-handed slugger with a smooth swing, Tucker’s offensive profile is ideal for Yankee Stadium’s short right field porch. His ability to hit for both power and average—evidenced by his .289 batting average, 23 home runs, and 49 RBIs in 78 games last season—makes him an invaluable asset.

Defensively, Tucker is versatile enough to handle left field, allowing Aaron Judge to return to his natural position in right. With his Gold Glove-winning skills, Tucker would bolster the Yankees’ outfield and complement Judge’s defensive strengths.

Astros’ prospect demands complicate Yankees’ Tucker trade

AP
The Yankees, who have already expressed a strong interest in Tucker, are reportedly offering a package of lower-tier prospects. According to NJ.com’s Randy Miller, “The Astros think the Yankees have offered ‘crap.’” The Bombers’ proposed players do not meet Houston’s demand for MLB-ready talent, and the Astros are holding firm on receiving a significant return for one of their best players.

“Now all they have to do is make an offer that doesn’t offend the Astros, according to a person with knowledge of trade talks during this week’s Winter Meetings, which concluded Wednesday,” Miller wrote. “So far, the Yankees are striking out. According to the person, who asked to remain anonymous because of the sensitivity of the talks, the Astros are demanding a big return loaded with quality MLB-ready pieces, but the New York team have offered prospects, none ranked among their top 30 in MLB Pipeline’s top 30. The Astros want the Yankees to start a package with right-hander Luis Gil, the 2024 AL Rookie of the Year. ‘I talked to someone with the Astros’ front office and was told the Yankees didn’t offer anything the Astros wanted,’ the person said. ‘Nothing. They think the New York team have offered crap.’”

The Astros have reportedly requested a package centered around Yankees right-hander Luis Gil, the reigning American League Rookie of the Year, along with at least one top prospect. The Bombers, however, have been reluctant to include Gil or any of their top-six prospects in trade discussions. Players like outfielders Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones, shortstops George Lombard Jr., and Roderick Arias remain off-limits for now. Even Oswald Peraza and Everson Pereira are not up for a deal.
MLB

Cubs’ offer encourages Astros to be more demanding

While the Yankees struggle to meet the Astros’ demands, the Chicago Cubs have emerged as a strong contender in the Tucker sweepstakes. The Cubs have reportedly put forth a compelling offer, including right fielder Seiya Suzuki and third baseman Isaac Paredes, both of whom have four years of team control remaining. Though Houston has asked for additional assets, the Cubs’ willingness to part with established MLB players has given them an edge in negotiations.

Despite the Cubs’ strong position, sources suggest the Astros would prefer to deal with the Yankees if they can secure a package including Gil and one of New York’s top prospects.

The Yankees are not the only team vying for Tucker. The Cubs, Phillies, and Giants have all expressed interest in the outfielder, according to The New York Post’s Joel Sherman. With multiple suitors in the mix, the Astros are in a strong position to demand a lucrative package.

Tucker’s agent, Casey Close, is reportedly open to negotiating an extension with the team that acquires him. This flexibility adds another layer of intrigue to the trade talks, as teams may seek a 48- to 72-hour window to finalize a deal contingent on an extension.

Yankees’ reluctant to overpay

The Yankees’ hesitation to meet Houston’s price reflects their cautious approach to preserving their farm system. MLB Network recently proposed a trade involving Gil, Warren, and unranked infield prospect Caleb Durbin, who impressed in the Arizona Fall League. However, analyst Sean Casey argued against the deal, stating, “That’s too much going on the Yankees’ side.”

The Yankees are also wary of overcommitting resources after giving up five players for Juan Soto and Trent Grisham during the 2023 Winter Meetings. While Soto delivered a stellar season, he ultimately declined the Bombers’ $760 million offer to join the Mets on a record-breaking $765 million deal. With Tucker projected to command $400-$500 million in free agency, the Yankees appear determined to avoid a similar situation without securing an extension.

For the Astros, Tucker’s looming free agency in 2025 has prompted them to consider a trade now, rather than risk losing him for nothing. With stars like Alex Bregman and Framber Valdez also nearing the end of their contracts, Houston is focused on maintaining a competitive roster while avoiding a rebuild. “They want game-ready players,” a source said. “They don’t want to rebuild.”

The Astros’ eight consecutive playoff appearances and two World Series titles underscore their commitment to sustained success. However, their willingness to part with Tucker hinges on receiving a significant return, one that aligns with their championship aspirations.
NYP

What’s next for the Yankees?

The Yankees’ pursuit of Tucker underscores their urgency to address roster gaps and build a championship-caliber team. However, their current offers are falling short of Houston’s expectations. To remain competitive in the Tucker sweepstakes, the Yankees may need to reconsider their stance on including higher-tier prospects or MLB-ready talent.

Tucker represents a rare opportunity to acquire a player with elite skills and postseason experience. For the Yankees, landing him would not only strengthen their lineup but also send a clear signal of their intent to contend in 2025.

The Yankees’ interest in Kyle Tucker is a high-stakes gamble that could reshape their roster and postseason prospects. However, with the Cubs offering a strong package and the Astros holding firm on their demands, the Bombers face an uphill battle to secure the All-Star outfielder. As trade talks evolve, the question remains: will the Yankees step up to the plate, or will another team steal the show? For now, all eyes are on Brian Cashman and the New York front office as they navigate one of the offseason’s most compelling storylines.

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