"The Toronto Blue Jays have spent almost this entire offseason in pursuit of the top free agent in the 2025-26 class in star outfielder Kyle Tucker. With all of the talent to be an elite five-tool player while heading into his prime, his potential could be limitless in the ensuing seasons ahead. In order to be successful in recruiting him, the Blue Jays may need to offer Tucker the most money to win the sweepstakes."
"However, that dream of landing the best free agent remaining in the market may have been abruptly dashed at the hands of the crazy-spending New York Mets, as it has been reported that they have made a ludicrous offer to Tucker. In a shorter-term deal, the Mets are willing to give the star outfielder in the ballpark of $50 million AAV per season. Yes, you read that correctly, $50 million AAV in salary each year, so we are talking Juan Soto territory now."
The Toronto Blue Jays prioritized signing Kyle Tucker throughout the offseason, valuing his five-tool upside and prime-age potential. The Blue Jays anticipated a long-term contract in the roughly $35–40 million AAV range to keep payroll flexibility. The New York Mets reportedly submitted a short-term offer around $50 million AAV, a rate comparable to top-tier outfield market prices. A $50 million AAV commitment would strain Toronto's payroll given Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s long-term contract and potential luxury tax consequences in 2026. Such a payroll burden would limit future roster upgrades and could place Tucker beyond Toronto's practical affordability. If paired, Guerrero and Tucker would form a historically potent lineup.
Read at Jays Journal
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