Amidst all the excitement and anticipation surrounding the New York Yankees’ 2022 season, there is a lingering concern about roster balance. Despite leading the Majors in home runs and runs scored, their struggles in October have raised questions about the team’s ability to perform under pressure. In an effort to address these concerns, Stacey Gotsulias and Brian McKeon, hosts of the popular podcast Locked On Yankees, have analyzed the team’s roster options for the upcoming season. And according to insider sources, the Yankees are set to make some major changes, including cutting ties with Cody Bellinger and potentially pursuing Kyle Tucker.
After a disappointing early exit in the playoffs, the Yankees are determined to make some strategic moves in the offseason to strengthen their roster and improve their chances of success. And one of the most talked-about decisions is the potential departure of Cody Bellinger. The 2022 season would be the last year of Bellinger’s contract, and there is growing speculation that the Yankees are looking to cut ties with him. While Bellinger has been a consistent performer for the team, with a career high of 39 home runs and a solid .269 batting average, his struggles in the postseason have become a major concern for the Yankees.
In the 2021 playoffs, Bellinger hit just .167 with no home runs and three RBIs. This was a stark contrast to his regular-season numbers, where he hit .267 with 17 home runs and 44 RBIs. With the Yankees in desperate need of postseason success, they cannot afford to have a player who is inconsistent under pressure. And with a hefty salary of $16.1 million, the Yankees are looking to cut ties with Bellinger and potentially use those funds to pursue other players.
One of the potential targets for the Yankees is Houston Astros’ outfielder Kyle Tucker. According to insider sources, the Yankees are keeping a close eye on Tucker’s contract situation with the Astros. Tucker, who is currently in his arbitration years, is set to be a free agent after the 2023 season. And with the Astros already tied up in long-term contracts with other key players, the Yankees see an opportunity to swoop in and make a move for Tucker.
Tucker has been a key player for the Astros, with an impressive .278 batting average and 27 home runs in the 2021 season. In addition to his offensive prowess, Tucker is also an exceptional fielder, with a strong arm and great speed. He would be a valuable addition to the Yankees’ outfield, which has been lacking in strength and consistency in recent years.
As McKeon pointed out in the Locked On Yankees podcast, the Yankees would have to pay a hefty price to acquire Tucker, as the Astros are unlikely to let go of such a valuable player easily. But the potential payoff for the Yankees could be huge, as Tucker’s skills and performance would greatly enhance their roster and give them a significant advantage in the competitive American League.
While the potential acquisition of Tucker is still in the works, the Yankees have already made some significant moves to address their roster balance. They have extended their contract with veteran pitcher Corey Kluber and have also added left-handed pitcher Joey Lucchesi to their roster. These additions, along with potential changes in the outfield, could give the Yankees the boost they need to make a strong run in the 2022 season.
In the end, the ultimate goal for the Yankees is to win a World Series title. And to achieve that, they need a well-balanced and strong roster that can perform under pressure. The struggles of past seasons have reminded the Yankees that they cannot solely rely on their home run-heavy offense. And with potential changes in the roster, they are taking steps towards achieving that balance and becoming a well-rounded team.
So, as we eagerly wait for the 2022 season to begin, the Yankees are making the necessary moves to strengthen their roster and give their fans something to cheer about. And with the potential addition of Kyle Tucker and a revamped lineup, the Yankees could be on their way to another successful season. Let’s hope the changes pay off and the Yankees bring home that elusive World Series title.
