Kyle Tucker’s free agency is one of the biggest storylines of the MLB offseason - and yet, the All-Star outfielder remains unsigned as we head deeper into December. Despite being the top name on the board, his market has been surprisingly quiet in some corners and heating up in others. One thing is clear: only a handful of teams have both the financial muscle and roster need to make a serious play for Tucker, and the list of true contenders for his signature is starting to narrow.
Tucker, 28, is in his prime and looking for a long-term deal - the kind that locks in both security and status. That immediately rules out a number of clubs that either can’t or won’t commit to a lengthy contract.
The Chicago Cubs, for instance, have shown no interest in bringing him in, despite their need for offensive firepower. Meanwhile, some early suitors like the Baltimore Orioles appear to have pivoted.
With Pete Alonso and Taylor Ward now in the fold, Baltimore seems to have shifted its focus elsewhere, effectively dropping out of the Tucker sweepstakes.
That leaves a few big-market teams still seriously in the mix - and among them, the Toronto Blue Jays are emerging as the most logical fit. Toronto has the financial flexibility to offer Tucker the five- or six-year deal he’s reportedly seeking.
They’ve also got a clear need in the outfield and a window to win now, which aligns well with Tucker’s value as a proven, two-way contributor. His age gives him an edge over some of the other free agents on the market, like Cody Bellinger, especially for teams looking to invest in a player who can be a cornerstone for the next half-decade.
The Yankees, on the other hand, seem to be prioritizing Bellinger over Tucker. While that doesn’t completely rule out a pivot, there’s been little indication that New York is seriously pursuing Tucker at this point. The Bronx Bombers may simply view Bellinger as the better fit for their lineup and clubhouse dynamic, or they could be weighing the cost-benefit of Tucker’s long-term demands.
Then there’s the Dodgers - always a player in any major free agency conversation. Los Angeles has the interest, but the sticking point is the length of the deal.
The Dodgers have shown a preference in recent years for creative contract structures, often leaning on deferred money or shorter-term, high-AAV deals. That approach doesn’t seem to align with what Tucker is looking for.
The fit is there on paper, but unless L.A. changes its stance on term length, it’s hard to see them as the frontrunner.
The Phillies, meanwhile, appear to be out of the running. They’ve already reunited with Kyle Schwarber and have other priorities this offseason, including decisions surrounding J.T.
Realmuto and free agent pitcher Ranger Suárez. With their focus elsewhere, Philadelphia doesn’t seem poised to make a serious push for Tucker.
So where does that leave us? Right now, all signs point north.
The Blue Jays have the need, the money, and the motivation to bring Tucker to Toronto. Their pursuit - or lack thereof - could even be playing a role in their current stance on Bo Bichette’s future.
If Tucker is indeed their top target, it would make sense for the front office to get clarity on one major piece before making a decision on another.
Tucker’s market may be quiet on the surface, but behind the scenes, it’s starting to take shape. He’s not just looking for a deal - he’s looking for the right fit, the right years, and the right situation. And as of now, the Blue Jays might just check all three boxes.