It's logical that established MLB players are part of trade discussions.
Ken Rosenthal and Chandler Rome of The Athletic also reported on the Chicago Cubs' discussions for the powerful outfielder.
Right fielder Seiya Suzuki and third baseman Isaac Parades have been mentioned, along with third base prospect Cam Smith, the team's first-round pick in the 2024 MLB draft.
This indicates that Houston aims to stay competitive in 2025, even if they part with Tucker, while also preparing for the possibility of Alex Bregman leaving in free agency.
The Astros are ensuring they have contingency plans in place.
Tucker has demonstrated his MVP-level capabilities, finishing fifth in voting in 2023. He was performing even better in 2024, but injuries limited him to 78 games.
Incorporating a player of Tucker's caliber into the outfield would significantly boost the team’s offense.
Facing a lineup featuring Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, and Bryce Harper was already challenging, but adding Tucker would further complicate things for opposing pitchers.
This kind of move is necessary for Philadelphia to remain competitive with other contenders who have already invested heavily before and during the Winter Meetings to build championship-caliber rosters for 2025 and beyond.
The Philadelphia Phillies are widely anticipated to make a significant move at this year's Winter Meetings.
They improved their regular season win total for the sixth consecutive 162-game season but fell short in the playoffs, despite earning a bye into the NLDS, where they were defeated by the New York Mets in four games.
To avoid another early playoff exit, the Phillies need to make changes to their roster, especially as their main competitors have made substantial additions.
The Mets signed Juan Soto to the largest contract in sports history, while the defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers strengthened their starting rotation by signing Blake Snell.
The Phillies must act soon to match these moves, whether through free agency or trades.
If they pursue a trade, one player they should target is Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros.
Tucker's name has surfaced in trade rumors at the Winter Meetings, as the Astros are open to discussing any player on their roster. However, this doesn't guarantee a deal will happen.
Philadelphia would likely need to present an impressive offer to Houston, as the Astros plan to compete in 2025 as well.
This situation could change, but making such offers wouldn't be detrimental.
What might a deal for Tucker entail?
David Schoenfield of ESPN suggested some potential pieces for a blockbuster trade.
“If Bregman signs elsewhere as a free agent (possibly with the Phillies!), Bohm could be sent to Houston along with outfield prospect Justin Crawford, whom the Astros would likely demand in the deal.”
The MLB writer also mentions Nick Castellanos, who would need to have his contract subsidized by the Phillies, along with Brandon Marsh and Johan Rojas as other players the Astros might consider.
Sep 20, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros right fielder Kyle Tucker (30) looks towards the dugout after hitting a single during the third inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Minute Maid Park.
Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
A potential Phillies trade package for Kyle Tucker
December 13, 2024
What might a trade deal from the Philadelphia Phillies to the Houston Astros for Kyle Tucker entail?
Philly Sports Jawn
Jawn Kruk
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