Yankees predicted to sign $460 million four-time All-Star, World Series champ if they lose Cody Bellinger to free agency originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New York Yankees lost in the ALDS to the Toronto Blue Jays, and now they're potentially losing one of their main superstars in Cody Bellinger. They need to make a move quickly if they lose Bellinger, as their AL East rivals have been working overtime to improve their rosters.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementBleacher Report’s Kerry Miller believes that if the Yanks lose Bellinger, which he sees as likely, they need to pursue a big fish, and that big fish is Chicago Cubs All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker.
MORE: Mets predicted to make blockbuster trade for $13.25 million All-Star, former Cy Young candidate to create 1-2 punch with Kodai Senga
“It's a bit silly to say that signing the hottest commodity in free agency is the backup plan for a team, but it might be the case for the Yankees. They arguably need to do something significant in the outfield, and with all due respect to the likes of Harrison Bader and Ryan O'Hearn, Bellinger and Tucker are the only significant options in free agency this winter,” Miller wrote.
This past season, Tucker slashed .266/.377/.464/.841 with 25 doubles, 22 home runs, 73 RBI, and 25 stolen bases in 136 games played. Tucker is also a lefty like Bellinger, so his numbers would be even better, as he can use the Short Porch for easier home runs.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMORE: Mariners predicted to replace Jorge Polanco with $116.5 million three-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger through blockbuster trade
The Yankees will be competing with other top contenders for Tucker, though. They need to be sure they’re ready to spend, even if owner Hal Steinbrenner doesn’t want to.
If they can get Tucker, they need to. He’s the future after Judge, and to have a bat like him locked down would be great for New York’s future.
MORE MLB NEWS
Proposed Yankees trade sees New York land $6.5 million All-Star closer to replace arm of Devin Williams
Mets urged to sign $80 million MVP, two-time All-Star to potentially replace Pete Alonso
Proposed Reds trade sees Cincinnati replace Will Benson with $8.5 million two-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove
AdvertisementAdvertisement
