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Rival Executives See Blue Jays as Front-Runner for Kyle Tucker as Bidding Forms Around Mega Deal

Toronto’s spending posture and need for a left-handed bat have positioned the club as Tucker’s leading fit as his market coalesces around a decade-plus, $400 million–plus price.

Overview

  • ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports rival front offices consider Toronto the favorite for four-time All-Star Kyle Tucker, with the Phillies, Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, Giants, and Orioles cited as potential suitors.
  • Dollar and term expectations are massive, with multiple outlets projecting 10-plus years and The Athletic pegging a potential 12-year, $460 million contract.
  • Fit hurdles have emerged for traditional bidders, including the Dodgers’ preference for shorter-term, high-AAV deals and the Yankees and Mets already anchored by Aaron Judge and Juan Soto in right field.
  • The Cubs are widely viewed as unlikely to meet Tucker’s price after trading for him last winter, and they would receive a compensatory pick around No. 75 if he signs elsewhere.
  • Tucker’s sweepstakes is shaping other decisions, with Toronto’s pursuit intersecting with Bo Bichette’s free agency and alternatives like Kyle Schwarber and Jorge Polanco, whom reports link to the Blue Jays and Red Sox if they lose core infielders.