Just when you thought the New York Mets might be content to count their chips and wait for Spring Training, the hot stove reignites with a report that changes the entire complexion of the National League East.
According to FanSided insider Robert Murray, the Mets’ interest in star outfielder Kyle Tucker is not just due diligence—it is legitimate and “real”. While the rest of the league seems paralyzed by the sticker shock of a contract likely to eclipse $300 million, the Mets are quietly positioning themselves to land the most complete offensive weapon left on the board.
President of Baseball Operations David Stearns is operating with a war chest that most general managers can only dream of. Reports indicate that owner Steve Cohen has authorized a payroll budget in the $350 million range, but we all know that number is merely a suggestion if a generational talent becomes available.
The beauty of the Mets’ current position is that they don’t have to be reckless; they just have to be opportunistic. With Tucker’s market moving slower than expected, the Mets have the unique financial flexibility to offer a higher average annual value (AAV) on a shorter deal, mitigating the long-term risk while giving Tucker the massive payday he deserves.
Why Kyle Tucker Is Worth Every Penny of the “Cohen Tax”
Let’s be honest: Kyle Tucker is in a different stratosphere than any other bat remaining in free agency. He is a model of consistency in a sport defined by failure, posting a 136 wRC+ last season while launching 22 home runs and swiping 25 bases. Unlike many modern sluggers who sell out for power, Tucker possesses an elite eye at the plate, walking at a 14.5% clip in 2025. This plate discipline makes him a unicorn in today’s game—a power hitter who refuses to expand the zone.
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Now, imagine that profile slotted into left field next to Juan Soto. You are talking about pairing two of the most disciplined left-handed hitters on the planet, creating a relentless gauntlet for opposing pitchers that would rival any duo in baseball history.
While Tucker’s defensive metrics in right field took a slight dip last season (-2 Outs Above Average), shifting him to left field at Citi Field would mask those deficiencies and keep his legs fresh. He isn’t just an upgrade; he is a lineup-altering force that the Mets are fending off 2 competitors for Kyle Tucker to acquire.
The Cody Bellinger Pivot Is a Dangerous Gamble
There will be voices in the room suggesting the Mets should pivot to a “cheaper” alternative like Cody Bellinger, but that feels like stepping over a dollar to pick up a dime. Bellinger had a solid bounce-back campaign in 2025, hitting .272 with 29 homers, but his underlying profile remains incredibly volatile for a player reportedly seeking $36 million per season. He relies heavily on bat-to-ball skills that can vanish overnight, whereas Tucker’s approach is built on the bedrock of strike zone command.
The Mets are very much in play to land Kyle Tucker and a star pitcher in free agency, and settling for the second-best option when you have the money to buy the best is how you lose in October. Tucker brings the kind of daily consistency that Bellinger simply hasn’t shown over the last five years. If the Mets want to turn a good offseason into a championship one, the check needs to be written to the guy who doesn’t chase pitches, not the one who chases past glory.