Kyle Tucker is the biggest bat available in free agency this offseason and the Mets are reportedly aggressively pursuing the All-Star outfielder.
Former Mets GM and MLB Network analyst Jim Duquette reports that 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.
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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.
Toronto launched the first salvo this offseason for Tucker’s services when they flew him out to the team’s player development complex in Florida in early December. Since then, the reigning AL Champs have added Dylan Cease, Tyler Rogers and the aforementioned Okamoto in free agency — in addition to other roster moves.
As for the Mets, the fit is clear. After the team traded Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers, it opened up left field for an outfield addition. Currently, Tyrone Taylor is the center fielder with Juan Soto manning right field. Prospect Carson Benge could play a role in the outfield in 2026, but adding Tucker would give the Mets two lethal corner outfielders.
Of course, Tucker’s decision will likely come down to money. Recent reports stated that Tucker may take a higher AAV on a short-term contract this offseason before testing free agency in a couple of years, so it may be more palatable for the Jays, Mets or Dodgers to sign Tucker if that’s the way he’s willing to go.
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Although the Mets have been connected to Tucker, they could also pivot to Cody Bellinger, who gives them the defensive flexibility of playing first base. Bellinger has been heavily pursued by the Yankees this offseason, and while the team in the Bronx has formally offered the outfielder contracts twice already, a gap between both sides still exists.
