Multiple teams are trying to get Kyle Tucker not just for the outfielder’s bat, but also for his age, consistency, and sportsmanship. And amidst that, the Yankees have fueled the debate with a $400 million payday speculation.

“I have not heard this narrative, but I guess I understand where the question is coming from in the sense that Tucker has had some injuries as he’s going into free agency and is probably going to sign a big contract,” MLB Trade Rumors Podcast’s Darragh McDonald pointed out. With that, McDonald quickly shut down any comparison to the Rockies’ Chris Bryant as decreasing Tucker’s value.

The 2025 season for Chris Bryant was not elite. It ended after just 11 games due to a degenerative back issue, landing Bryant on the 60-day injured list. Even during that period, he slashed a meager .154/.195/.205 with only two doubles and delivered one RBI. On the contrary, Tucker has been dominant despite a late-season calf strain.

Over the last 10 games, Tucker’s average is .206, and he delivered seven hits, five runs, and a home run. Tucker’s current dominance was cherished when he had a two-hit and two-walk performance in NLDS Game 4, which helped the Cubs win with a 6-0 record over the Brewers.

Then, in the podcast, Anthony Franco provided his narrative on Tucker‘s health. “I think most of the injuries themselves have been fluky and in a way that doesn’t really concern me.”

“I’d much rather have Kyle Tucker than the free agent version of Chris Bryant. Kyle Tucker’s offensive profile has been reliably 35–40% above league average every year, and I don’t see that changing,” Franco added. He highlighted why teams like the Yankees need not worry about long-period risk.

So, Aaron Boone’s team is linked to the outfielder, with insiders highlighting that Tucker fits the Yankees effectively.

Kiley McDaniel from ESPN surveyed 20 executives, agents, and accounts to get an idea of the market for Tucker. The data highlighted an average projection of $391.5 million, and the median was $390 million. In that survey, some pointed out that the Yankees will be a logical team for Tucker if they choose to go big-game hunting.

Now, with Aaron Boone’s team circling, it looks like the Yankees are not the only team in the hunt. 

Red Sox emerge as surprise contender in Kyle Tucker talks

The Red Sox have quietly placed themselves as a dark-horse contender in the Tucker race. Boasting a packed outfield with Jarren Duran, Ceddanne Rafaela, and Roman Anthony, the team may not seem to be a logical suitor. Yet Jon Heyman has linked the Red Sox alongside the Phillies, Giants, and Dodgers as a potential destination for the slugger. 

What makes their interest logical is the financial stability gained after severing its ties with Rafael Dever. The Red Sox’s move helped the team free up vital payroll space, and Tucker’s current valuation fits effectively with the team.

Trading any outfielder like Abreu and Duran for pitching could help balance the roster and make some room for Tucker.

Tucker’s free agency is getting momentum, with the Red Sox and the Yankees being linked with the team-altering star. As the $400 million buzz grows louder, one thing is clear: Whichever team gets the 4x All-Star will redefine MLB’s financial landscape.