The Cincinnati Reds are searching for an outfielder, and few fit the bill better than Kyle Tucker. The Houston Astros’ three-time All-Star is reportedly available for the right offer. Astros GM Dana Brown stated, “We’ll listen on anybody.”
This offseason presents a challenge for the Astros. While Houston frequently operates with a top-10 payroll in MLB, team owner Jim Crane is reluctant to exceed the luxury tax threshold. The Astros surpassed it last season, and Crane is keen to avoid becoming a repeat offender.
The Reds should check the availability of Astros’ OF Kyle Tucker
This is where the idea of trading for Kyle Tucker comes into play. The Astros already have significant financial commitments to stars like Jose Altuve, Yordan Álvarez, and Josh Hader. They’re also paying hefty sums to players no longer on their roster, with Jose Abreu and Rafael Montero set to collect a combined $40 million in 2025. With Houston determined to retain third baseman Alex Bregman, they have limited options for cutting costs.
Tucker, entering the final year of his arbitration eligibility, is projected by MLB Trade Rumors to earn $15.8 million in 2025 before becoming a free agent the following winter. The Astros also face the challenge of one of MLB’s weakest farm systems, and trading Tucker could provide a valuable opportunity to replenish their prospect pool.
Some thoughts from GM Dana Brown from his suite in Dallas, including being open to trading Tucker and/or Valdez.
Brown said earlier nothing is the off the tables pic.twitter.com/V9Sh909sQN
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) December 9, 2024
A player of Tucker’s caliber rarely becomes available. Even for just one season, the Reds’ general manager Nick Krall and his front office seriously consider pursuing him. While Cincinnati might prefer a right-handed power hitter, Tucker’s career splits are well-balanced. He provides solid defense in right field and offers the kind of bat that would slot perfectly into the middle of the lineup alongside Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, and Tyler Stephenson.
It’s uncertain whether the Astros will actually part with Tucker, but if they commit to re-signing Bregman this winter, their chances of keeping Tucker beyond 2025 are slim. For the Reds, this is a gamble worth taking—one that could make them favorites in the NL Central next season.
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