The New York Mets made a strong play for Kyle Tucker, but their offer ultimately fell short. According to The Post’s Jon Heyman, the Mets proposed a four-year contract worth $220 million to the four-time All-Star outfielder. The deal featured no deferred payments and was structured to pay Tucker $60 million in each of the first two years, followed by $50 million annually for the final two years.
However, the Los Angeles Dodgers outbid the Mets on Thursday, securing Tucker with a four-year, $240 million contract. Reports indicate that the deal includes opt-out clauses after the second and third years, allowing Tucker some flexibility.
Despite the Dodgers deferring $30 million of the contract, it still stands as the highest present value contract in Major League Baseball history when considering average annual value.
While the Toronto Blue Jays were long seen as strong contenders in the race for Tucker, it remains unclear what they ultimately offered. ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that Toronto was considering a deal that could potentially extend to 10 years.
Tucker’s addition to the Dodgers, the reigning two-time World Series champions, significantly strengthens their outfield lineup. For the Mets, this development represents a considerable challenge as they look to bolster their own outfield options.
Tucker jumping to the two-time defending World Series champions boosts an obvious need in their outfield, and it also presents the Mets with a challenge in the same part of the diamond.
The Amazin’s traded Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers for second baseman Marcus Semien this offseason, in theory leaving a spot open in left field. Tyrone Taylor is still under contract, and president of baseball operations David Stearns said earlier this offseason that prospect Carson Benge will have a chance to make the team out of spring training. But if it’s those two and Juan Soto as the three starting outfielders on Opening Day remains to be seen.
Cody Bellinger is likely the next best available outfielder on the market, but Heyman reported Thursday that the Yankees have now included two opt-outs in their dogged pursuit to bring him back to The Bronx.
