The New York Yankees face a significant decision as they navigate the offseason and potential free agency signings. They must determine whether to prioritize outfielder Kyle Tucker of the Chicago Cubs over Cody Bellinger, a current member of the team. The debate centers around maximizing the talent and impact of their roster.
Yankees’ Offseason Focus: Kyle Tucker vs. Cody Bellinger
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman recently indicated that Bellinger is expected to opt out of his current contract, making him a free agent. Bellinger had an impressive 2025 season, recorded a 125 weighted runs created plus (wRC+), and a 4.9 wins above replacement (fWAR). Notably, he achieved 11 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) and six outs above average (OAA), showing versatility and skill on the field.
Why Kyle Tucker Should Be the Priority
Despite Bellinger’s impressive metrics, the Yankees should consider Kyle Tucker their primary target. Tucker offers superior overall statistics and has demonstrated consistent performance over the last five years. Here’s a comparison of key attributes:
| Player | Games Played | Batting Average | On-Base Percentage | Slugging Percentage | Home Runs | RBIs | wRC+ | fWAR | DRS | OAA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cody Bellinger | 651 | .251 | .310 | .436 | 102 | 377 | 125 | 4.9 | 11 | 6 |
| Kyle Tucker | 661 | .277 | .365 | .514 | 134 | 433 | 134 | 5.9 | 8 | -5 |
While both players bring valuable skill sets, Tucker has maintained a higher batting average and on-base percentage than Bellinger. Tucker’s recent injuries limited his time on the field but he still managed to excel during his appearances.
Impact of Player Performance
The Yankees must ask themselves critical questions regarding player choice. How many games do teams win because of extraordinary defensive plays versus high offensive production? Tucker’s offensive prowess, including a 143 wRC+ over the past five seasons, makes him a more compelling addition to the Yankees’ lineup.
It is vital for the Yankees to focus on acquiring the best talent available. By prioritizing Tucker, they not only improve their offense but also prepare for the eventual decline of aging players like Aaron Judge, who will turn 34 next season.
Conclusion: The Right Investment
Pursuing Kyle Tucker should be the Yankees’ primary decision as they approach free agency. While re-signing Bellinger would not be a poor choice, they must first aim to secure top-tier talent like Tucker. The cost of signing Tucker may exceed $400 million, marking him as a significant investment, but his potential impact on the team’s future could prove invaluable.
