Here is the latest news and buzz surrounding free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker and his chances of signing with the Mets…
Jan. 7, 8:24 p.m.
Earlier reports suggested that Tucker may have to settle for a short-term deal with a high AAV, but one team is seemingly willing to commit to the All-Star outfielder long term.
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The Athletic’s Will Sammon reports that while the Mets, Dodgers and Blue Jays are among Tucker’s options this offseason, New York’s preference is to offer a shorter contract. Sammon speculates the Mets would like to make a deal with a length of less than four years. However, the Blue Jays are expected to offer a longer contract this offseason.
Sammon notes that the Dodgers should not be ignored, as they have a history of swooping in and making deals.
After trading Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers, Juan Soto is the only Mets outfielder written on the lineup in pen. Tyrone Taylor and Carson Benge are the current top candidates to fill center field and left field, but adding Tucker would immediately change that equation.
Jan. 6, 8:37 p.m.
Three teams have emerged as the most “aggressive” in their pursuit of Tucker.
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According to former MLB exec and MLB Network radio analyst Jim Duquette, the Mets, Dodgers and Blue Jays are the most aggressive suitors for Tucker. However, Duquette adds that nothing appears imminent and there is some distance between the other team reportedly interested and the main three.
The Athletic’s Mitch Bannon reported Tuesday that Toronto has increased their efforts to recruit Tucker as he fits their roster construction better than former infielder Bo Bichette. After signing Japanese star Kazuma Okamoto, the Blue Jays’ infield is likely set, while an outfield addition is easier. Adding Tucker would mean Anthony Santander would move to left field, allowing George Springer to play most of the time as the team’s DH.
Jan. 5, 2:08 p.m.
Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported Monday that Tucker’s market is “the biggest mystery,” adding that he could have to “take a higher AAV on a short-term contract and hit the market again after two consecutive injury-plagued second halves.”
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Many believed Tucker’s market would result in a massive contract in terms of length, with some projecting a contract of 10 or even 11 years. However, that may not be the case if teams balk at the idea of a long-term commitment.
