While the New York Mets are one of the top contenders for Kyle Tucker, a new report suggests that the Toronto Blue Jays can easily win the sweepstakes for the All-Star if they make one adjustment to their current offer.
Despite being considered the top player in free agency this offseason following the conclusion of the World Series, the Houston Astros and Chicago Cubs veteran remains on the open market. Originally, Tucker was expected to land a huge long-term pact worth close to $400 million. However, it seems his market does not have as many teams willing to offer such a deal.
That has opened the door for the NY Mets and LA Dodgers to be legitimate contenders for his services, along with the Blue Jays. Toronto seemed close to finalizing a deal a month ago, since they looked to be the club willing to offer the most years. However, the two NL clubs are seeking a short-term deal with huge annual rates.
Kyle Tucker stats: .266 AVG, .377 OBP, .464 SLG, .841 OPS, 22 HR, 73 RBI, 91 R, 25 SB
On Tuesday, it was reported that the NY Mets are willing to go as high as $50 million per season in a deal with the four-time All-Star. It seemingly put them in the driver’s seat in the Tucker chase. However, according to USA TODAY’s Bob Nightengale, it still may be the Blue Jays’ race to lose.
According to the MLB insider, Tucker is likely still on the open market because he is hoping that Toronto increases the annual average value in their offer, and then he will accept their long-term contract.
So, if the NY Mets hope to get the outfielder, they need a little help from the Blue Jays by standing pat on their current offer and not upping the AAV. If they do, and give him something closer to that magic $300 to $400 million number he has been looking for, they will probably win the sweepstakes for his services.
