Cole Bryson Tucker, born on July 3, 1996, in Phoenix, Arizona, is an American professional baseball player who has made quite a name for himself in Major League Baseball (MLB). Known for his versatility as both a shortstop and an outfielder, Tucker’s career has seen its fair share of ups and downs. As of 2025, he is a free agent, leaving fans curious about what’s next for the 28-year-old. Let’s take a closer look at his journey, his family background, and what the future might hold.
Early Life and Baseball Beginnings
Growing up in Phoenix, Cole Tucker’s love for baseball was evident early on. He attended Mountain Pointe High School, where his skills on the field quickly set him apart. His performance earned him a spot on the United States national baseball team, where he played in the 2013 18U Baseball World Cup, winning a gold medal. Tucker initially committed to play college baseball at the University of Arizona, but his plans took a turn when the Pittsburgh Pirates came calling.
In 2014, the Pirates selected Tucker in the first round of the MLB Draft, offering a $1.8 million signing bonus—a dream come true for the young athlete. Opting to go pro, he began his professional career with the Gulf Coast League Pirates, where his switch-hitting ability and defensive skills made an immediate impact.
Professional Career: From Pirates to Free Agent
Cole Tucker’s major league debut came on April 20, 2019, and what a debut it was. Facing the San Francisco Giants, he smashed a two-run home run in his third at-bat, which ended up being the game-winning hit. It was a moment that put Tucker on the map and left Pirates fans hopeful for the future.
However, the following years proved challenging. Tucker’s batting stats were inconsistent, with a career batting average of .216, five home runs, and 40 runs batted in by the end of the 2024 season. Despite his struggles at the plate, his defensive versatility kept him in the lineup. Over the years, he shuffled between the major and minor leagues, playing for the Colorado Rockies in 2023 and the Los Angeles Angels in 2024.
As of 2025, Tucker remains a free agent, making him one of the more intriguing prospects for teams in need of a versatile infielder. His switch-hitting ability and athleticism still make him a valuable asset despite his batting struggles.
Family, Relationships, and Net Worth
Baseball isn’t the only thing that has kept Cole Tucker in the headlines. His relationship with actress Vanessa Hudgens has been a hot topic since they first went public in 2020. The couple’s Instagram moments, from holiday getaways to red-carpet appearances, have made them a fan-favorite pair.
Tucker’s younger brother, Carson Tucker, is also a professional baseball player, keeping the sport a family affair. The Tucker brothers share a close bond, often supporting each other’s careers publicly.
Financially, Cole Tucker’s career has been solid, if not spectacular. With his signing bonuses, MLB contracts, and endorsement deals, his net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $4 million. While not as high as some of his peers, it’s a figure that reflects both his potential and the challenges he’s faced on the field.
Final Thoughts
Cole Tucker’s career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but his potential is undeniable. With the right fit, he could find himself back in the spotlight soon enough. Until then, fans will be watching closely to see what the future holds for this talented free agent.
